{"content_id":"o0ouwngtpl","slug":"salted-cabbage-rewashing-and-storage-labels","locale":"en","schema_type":"Article","category":"knowledge_base","category_name":"Knowledge Base","title":"Salted Napa Cabbage Storage and Rinsing Guidelines","summary":"Salted napa cabbage is best used on the day it arrives. To decide whether to rinse it again, check both the product instructions and the actual storage conditions. Follow the product-specific instructions for refrigerated storage periods and draining times.","sponsorship_disclosure":null,"affiliate_disclosure":null,"commerce_disclosure":null,"author":{"name":"Injoys Editorial Team","url":"https://injoys.com/ko/about"},"key_points":["The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety advises that salted napa cabbage is best used on the day it is received.","If it has been stored at room temperature for at least 1 day, rinsing it before use is recommended.","When rinsing it at home, it is best to rinse it at most 3 times.","A label indicating that washing is complete means something different from one indicating that water removal is complete.","Check the product you purchased to find out how long it can be refrigerated and how long to let it drain."],"content_markdown":"Brined napa cabbage is best used on the day it arrives. Whether to wash it again depends on the product instructions and storage conditions. If it has been stored at room temperature for at least 1 day, washing before use is recommended. Check each product’s instructions for refrigerated storage periods and draining times.\n\nThe guidance on the number of washes and room-temperature storage comes from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety’s notice dated November 13, 2019.\n\n## The difference between washing and draining on the packaging\n\nWashing means cleaning with water, while draining means removing excess water. A label stating that washing is complete does not necessarily mean draining is also complete. This is why instructions for washing again and draining must be read separately.\n\nA 2015 notice from Korea Policy Briefing introduces products that can be used without further washing or draining. In contrast, Natural Dream’s 2022 product information states that draining was skipped. Even products with the same name need to be checked for how they were actually processed.\n\n| What the product says | Meaning | What else to check |\n|---|---|---|\n| Washed | Washed during production | Whether the consumer needs to wash it again |\n| Drained | Excess water removed during production | Whether further draining is needed before use |\n| Use without washing | Instructions for use by the consumer | Whether storage instructions were followed after delivery |\n| Wash before use | Instructions requiring additional washing | How to wash it and drain it afterward |\n| Drain before use | Instructions requiring draining before use | Recommended draining time and storage conditions during preparation |\n\nIf the label is unclear, check with the manufacturer or seller. You should also check if the product description differs from the enclosed instructions. When asking, provide the name and label details of the product you actually received.\n\n## When cabbage must be washed after room-temperature storage\n\nThe condition under which the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recommends washing again is **storage at room temperature for at least 1 day**. The same notice warns that coliform bacteria may increase after more than a day at room temperature. Coliforms are a group of bacteria used as an indicator of hygiene conditions.\n\nThe Ministry of Food and Drug Safety provided the following guidance in “A Useful Guide to Safely Using Brined Napa Cabbage During Kimchi-Making Season.”\n\n\u003e It is best not to wash brined napa cabbage more than 3 times.\n\nThis wording also appears in the ministry’s document republished by Daegu Metropolitan City. The document explains that excessive washing can damage the cabbage, including making it soft. Even when additional washing is needed, you should not keep increasing the number of washes.\n\n## Decision table for changes to your preparation schedule\n\nIf your kimchi-making date is postponed, check both where the cabbage has actually been stored and for how long. The delivery date alone does not tell you about room-temperature storage conditions. Compare these details with the product’s instructions as well.\n\n| Situation | What to check | Basis for deciding |\n|---|---|---|\n| Using the product on the day it arrives, with no additional washing required | Conditions for use on the packaging and enclosed instructions | Prepare according to the product instructions |\n| Using the product on the day it arrives, but washing is required | Instructions for additional washing | Use after washing |\n| Stored at room temperature for at least 1 day | Actual time stored at room temperature | The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recommends washing before use and advises washing no more than 3 times |\n| Refrigerated according to the product instructions | Storage temperature and usable storage period | Check the conditions for that product |\n| Storage location or duration is unclear | Storage history since delivery | Explain the situation to the manufacturer or seller and check whether it can be used |\n\nA statement that no additional washing is needed must be read together with the storage instructions. If the room-temperature storage condition applies, follow the ministry’s washing recommendation. Other buyers’ experiences alone are not enough to make this decision.\n\n## Where to check how long brined napa cabbage can be refrigerated\n\nCheck the label of the product you purchased for its refrigerated storage period. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety’s 2019 consumer guidance does not give a universal number of days for refrigerated storage. If there are no product instructions, check with the manufacturer or seller.\n\nFor the Natural Dream product listed in 2022, the instructions required storage in a kimchi refrigerator if it could not be used that day. They also explicitly warned of possible spoilage from prolonged exposure to room temperature. These instructions apply to that product and should not be treated as storage conditions for other products.\n\nCheck the following:\n\n- Storage temperature and where to refrigerate it\n- The usable storage period and the date from which it is counted\n- Any changes in storage conditions after opening\n- Instructions for use if the kimchi-making schedule is postponed\n\nA storage period counted from the production date differs from one counted from the delivery date. If the label counts from the production date, do not restart the count on the day it arrives. This is why you should check the date on the label before putting it in the refrigerator.\n\n## Why draining time must be checked for each product\n\nBefore deciding how long to drain the cabbage, check whether it was drained before shipping. Even products that have been washed may differ in how they were drained. The ministry’s consumer guidance reviewed here does not specify a universal draining time for home use.\n\nThe Natural Dream product listed in 2022 explained that draining was skipped to prevent browning. This example shows that washing and draining are separate processes. It does not provide a basis for applying another product’s draining time.\n\n| Item to check | What to ask the manufacturer or seller |\n|---|---|\n| Processing before shipping | Whether both washing and draining were completed |\n| Preparation before use | Whether additional draining is needed |\n| Preparation conditions | Recommended draining time and location |\n| Schedule delays | Whether storage methods differ before and after draining |\n\n## The difference between origin, weight, seasoning details, and hygiene instructions\n\nOrigin and package weight alone cannot determine whether washing again is necessary. Place names such as Goesan, Haenam, Yeongwol, and Pyeongchang do not replace storage conditions. Weight and seasoning details must also be checked separately from the instructions for use.\n\n| Product information | What it tells you | What to check separately |\n|---|---|---|\n| Origin | Where the cabbage was grown | Washing, draining, and storage conditions after delivery |\n| Package weight | The amount of cabbage being ordered | Number of heads and guidelines for removing excess water |\n| Seasoning details | Types and amounts of seasoning included | Separate storage instructions for the cabbage and seasoning |\n| Date selection | Delivery schedule provided by the seller | Whether the selected date is the shipping date or expected delivery date |\n\nCheck the amount of seasoning to prepare against the reference cabbage weight provided by the seller. Do not convert between the number of heads and weight using a fixed ratio. The delivery schedule helps you determine whether you can use the cabbage on the day it arrives.\n\n## Storage history to share with the seller\n\nWhen asking whether the product can be used, provide both the product information and its actual storage history. Even for the same product, the circumstances described by each person may differ. Organizing the following details makes it easier to check which conditions apply to the guidance.\n\n- Product name and date information, such as the production date\n- Delivery date and time\n- Where it was stored after delivery\n- Time spent at room temperature and whether it was refrigerated\n- Whether it has been opened, washed again, or drained\n- Revised kimchi-making date\n\nIn particular, time spent sitting at the entrance or in a similar location is also part of the storage history. Providing a photo of the product instructions helps confirm the exact wording. Do not choose an arbitrary storage period when it is unclear whether the product can still be used.\n\n## Frequently asked questions\n\n### Does a product labeled as washed need to be washed again?\n\nDo not decide based only on a label stating that washing is complete. Check the instructions for any additional washing by the consumer. If it has been stored at room temperature for at least 1 day, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recommends washing before use.\n\n### Where should cabbage be stored if it will be used the next day?\n\nFollow the storage conditions specified for the product you purchased. If refrigeration is instructed, check both the temperature and storage period. Separately check how long it has been at room temperature.\n\n### Is washing more times better?\n\nThe Ministry of Food and Drug Safety advises washing no more than 3 times. Excessive washing can damage the cabbage, including making it soft. Continuing to increase the number of washes is not recommended.\n\n### Must cabbage be drained after washing?\n\nCheck the product instructions to see whether additional draining is needed. Whether draining was done during production can vary by product. Follow that product’s instructions rather than a universal draining time.\n\n### Were these guidelines newly introduced in 2026?\n\nThe Ministry of Food and Drug Safety guidance reviewed in this article is dated November 13, 2019. The same core recommendations also appear in Korea Policy Briefing’s 2015 notice. They should not be interpreted as guidelines newly introduced in 2026.","content_html":"\u003cp\u003eBrined napa cabbage is best used on the day it arrives. Whether to wash it again depends on the product instructions and storage conditions. If it has been stored at room temperature for at least 1 day, washing before use is recommended. Check each product’s instructions for refrigerated storage periods and draining times.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe guidance on the number of washes and room-temperature storage comes from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety’s notice dated November 13, 2019.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#the-difference-between-washing-and-draining-on-the-packaging\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"the-difference-between-washing-and-draining-on-the-packaging\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eThe difference between washing and draining on the packaging\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWashing means cleaning with water, while draining means removing excess water. A label stating that washing is complete does not necessarily mean draining is also complete. This is why instructions for washing again and draining must be read separately.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 2015 notice from Korea Policy Briefing introduces products that can be used without further washing or draining. In contrast, Natural Dream’s 2022 product information states that draining was skipped. Even products with the same name need to be checked for how they were actually processed.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat the product says\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eMeaning\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat else to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the product says\"\u003eWashed\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eWashed during production\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What else to check\"\u003eWhether the consumer needs to wash it again\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the product says\"\u003eDrained\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eExcess water removed during production\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What else to check\"\u003eWhether further draining is needed before use\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the product says\"\u003eUse without washing\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eInstructions for use by the consumer\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What else to check\"\u003eWhether storage instructions were followed after delivery\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the product says\"\u003eWash before use\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eInstructions requiring additional washing\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What else to check\"\u003eHow to wash it and drain it afterward\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What the product says\"\u003eDrain before use\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Meaning\"\u003eInstructions requiring draining before use\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What else to check\"\u003eRecommended draining time and storage conditions during preparation\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf the label is unclear, check with the manufacturer or seller. You should also check if the product description differs from the enclosed instructions. When asking, provide the name and label details of the product you actually received.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#when-cabbage-must-be-washed-after-room-temperature-storage\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"when-cabbage-must-be-washed-after-room-temperature-storage\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhen cabbage must be washed after room-temperature storage\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe condition under which the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recommends washing again is \u003cstrong\u003estorage at room temperature for at least 1 day\u003c/strong\u003e. The same notice warns that coliform bacteria may increase after more than a day at room temperature. Coliforms are a group of bacteria used as an indicator of hygiene conditions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ministry of Food and Drug Safety provided the following guidance in “A Useful Guide to Safely Using Brined Napa Cabbage During Kimchi-Making Season.”\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is best not to wash brined napa cabbage more than 3 times.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis wording also appears in the ministry’s document republished by Daegu Metropolitan City. The document explains that excessive washing can damage the cabbage, including making it soft. Even when additional washing is needed, you should not keep increasing the number of washes.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#decision-table-for-changes-to-your-preparation-schedule\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"decision-table-for-changes-to-your-preparation-schedule\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDecision table for changes to your preparation schedule\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf your kimchi-making date is postponed, check both where the cabbage has actually been stored and for how long. The delivery date alone does not tell you about room-temperature storage conditions. Compare these details with the product’s instructions as well.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eSituation\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eBasis for deciding\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eUsing the product on the day it arrives, with no additional washing required\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eConditions for use on the packaging and enclosed instructions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Basis for deciding\"\u003ePrepare according to the product instructions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eUsing the product on the day it arrives, but washing is required\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eInstructions for additional washing\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Basis for deciding\"\u003eUse after washing\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eStored at room temperature for at least 1 day\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eActual time stored at room temperature\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Basis for deciding\"\u003eThe Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recommends washing before use and advises washing no more than 3 times\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eRefrigerated according to the product instructions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eStorage temperature and usable storage period\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Basis for deciding\"\u003eCheck the conditions for that product\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Situation\"\u003eStorage location or duration is unclear\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check\"\u003eStorage history since delivery\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Basis for deciding\"\u003eExplain the situation to the manufacturer or seller and check whether it can be used\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA statement that no additional washing is needed must be read together with the storage instructions. If the room-temperature storage condition applies, follow the ministry’s washing recommendation. Other buyers’ experiences alone are not enough to make this decision.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#where-to-check-how-long-brined-napa-cabbage-can-be-refrigerated\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"where-to-check-how-long-brined-napa-cabbage-can-be-refrigerated\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhere to check how long brined napa cabbage can be refrigerated\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck the label of the product you purchased for its refrigerated storage period. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety’s 2019 consumer guidance does not give a universal number of days for refrigerated storage. If there are no product instructions, check with the manufacturer or seller.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the Natural Dream product listed in 2022, the instructions required storage in a kimchi refrigerator if it could not be used that day. They also explicitly warned of possible spoilage from prolonged exposure to room temperature. These instructions apply to that product and should not be treated as storage conditions for other products.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck the following:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStorage temperature and where to refrigerate it\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe usable storage period and the date from which it is counted\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAny changes in storage conditions after opening\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInstructions for use if the kimchi-making schedule is postponed\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA storage period counted from the production date differs from one counted from the delivery date. If the label counts from the production date, do not restart the count on the day it arrives. This is why you should check the date on the label before putting it in the refrigerator.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#why-draining-time-must-be-checked-for-each-product\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"why-draining-time-must-be-checked-for-each-product\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhy draining time must be checked for each product\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore deciding how long to drain the cabbage, check whether it was drained before shipping. Even products that have been washed may differ in how they were drained. The ministry’s consumer guidance reviewed here does not specify a universal draining time for home use.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Natural Dream product listed in 2022 explained that draining was skipped to prevent browning. This example shows that washing and draining are separate processes. It does not provide a basis for applying another product’s draining time.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eItem to check\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to ask the manufacturer or seller\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eProcessing before shipping\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to ask the manufacturer or seller\"\u003eWhether both washing and draining were completed\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003ePreparation before use\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to ask the manufacturer or seller\"\u003eWhether additional draining is needed\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003ePreparation conditions\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to ask the manufacturer or seller\"\u003eRecommended draining time and location\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Item to check\"\u003eSchedule delays\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to ask the manufacturer or seller\"\u003eWhether storage methods differ before and after draining\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#the-difference-between-origin-weight-seasoning-details-and-hygiene-instructions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"the-difference-between-origin-weight-seasoning-details-and-hygiene-instructions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eThe difference between origin, weight, seasoning details, and hygiene instructions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin and package weight alone cannot determine whether washing again is necessary. Place names such as Goesan, Haenam, Yeongwol, and Pyeongchang do not replace storage conditions. Weight and seasoning details must also be checked separately from the instructions for use.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"overflow-x-auto\"\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eProduct information\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat it tells you\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eWhat to check separately\u003c/th\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Product information\"\u003eOrigin\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it tells you\"\u003eWhere the cabbage was grown\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check separately\"\u003eWashing, draining, and storage conditions after delivery\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Product information\"\u003ePackage weight\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it tells you\"\u003eThe amount of cabbage being ordered\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check separately\"\u003eNumber of heads and guidelines for removing excess water\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Product information\"\u003eSeasoning details\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it tells you\"\u003eTypes and amounts of seasoning included\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check separately\"\u003eSeparate storage instructions for the cabbage and seasoning\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"Product information\"\u003eDate selection\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What it tells you\"\u003eDelivery schedule provided by the seller\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-label=\"What to check separately\"\u003eWhether the selected date is the shipping date or expected delivery date\u003c/td\u003e\n\u003c/tr\u003e\n\u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck the amount of seasoning to prepare against the reference cabbage weight provided by the seller. Do not convert between the number of heads and weight using a fixed ratio. The delivery schedule helps you determine whether you can use the cabbage on the day it arrives.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#storage-history-to-share-with-the-seller\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"storage-history-to-share-with-the-seller\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eStorage history to share with the seller\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen asking whether the product can be used, provide both the product information and its actual storage history. Even for the same product, the circumstances described by each person may differ. Organizing the following details makes it easier to check which conditions apply to the guidance.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProduct name and date information, such as the production date\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDelivery date and time\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhere it was stored after delivery\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTime spent at room temperature and whether it was refrigerated\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWhether it has been opened, washed again, or drained\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRevised kimchi-making date\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn particular, time spent sitting at the entrance or in a similar location is also part of the storage history. Providing a photo of the product instructions helps confirm the exact wording. Do not choose an arbitrary storage period when it is unclear whether the product can still be used.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#frequently-asked-questions\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"frequently-asked-questions\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eFrequently asked questions\u003c/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#does-a-product-labeled-as-washed-need-to-be-washed-again\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"does-a-product-labeled-as-washed-need-to-be-washed-again\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eDoes a product labeled as washed need to be washed again?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDo not decide based only on a label stating that washing is complete. Check the instructions for any additional washing by the consumer. If it has been stored at room temperature for at least 1 day, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recommends washing before use.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#where-should-cabbage-be-stored-if-it-will-be-used-the-next-day\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"where-should-cabbage-be-stored-if-it-will-be-used-the-next-day\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWhere should cabbage be stored if it will be used the next day?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollow the storage conditions specified for the product you purchased. If refrigeration is instructed, check both the temperature and storage period. Separately check how long it has been at room temperature.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#is-washing-more-times-better\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"is-washing-more-times-better\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eIs washing more times better?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ministry of Food and Drug Safety advises washing no more than 3 times. Excessive washing can damage the cabbage, including making it soft. Continuing to increase the number of washes is not recommended.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#must-cabbage-be-drained-after-washing\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"must-cabbage-be-drained-after-washing\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eMust cabbage be drained after washing?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCheck the product instructions to see whether additional draining is needed. Whether draining was done during production can vary by product. Follow that product’s instructions rather than a universal draining time.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"#were-these-guidelines-newly-introduced-in-2026\" class=\"anchor\" id=\"were-these-guidelines-newly-introduced-in-2026\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003eWere these guidelines newly introduced in 2026?\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ministry of Food and Drug Safety guidance reviewed in this article is dated November 13, 2019. The same core recommendations also appear in Korea Policy Briefing’s 2015 notice. They should not be interpreted as guidelines newly introduced in 2026.\u003c/p\u003e\n","tags":["Food shopping","Food storage"],"faqs":[{"question":"Is it best to use salted napa cabbage on the day it arrives?","answer":"The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety advises that it is best to use it immediately on the day it arrives. This is because coliform bacteria may multiply if it is stored at room temperature for more than a day."},{"question":"Does a label stating that washing is complete mean that draining is also complete?","answer":"Washing and draining are separate processes. Do not assume that the product has been drained based only on a label stating that washing is complete. Check the instructions for any additional draining."},{"question":"What should I do if it has been left at room temperature for at least 1 day?","answer":"The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recommends washing it before use. It advises washing it no more than 3 times."},{"question":"How many days can it be kept refrigerated before use?","answer":"The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety guidance reviewed does not specify a number of days that applies to all products. Check the storage temperature and use-by date for the product you purchased."},{"question":"Should the use-by period be calculated from the day it arrives?","answer":"Calculate it from the starting date specified for the product. If it is based on the manufacturing date, do not recalculate it from the date you received it."},{"question":"Is the draining time the same for all products?","answer":"Check whether each product was drained before shipping. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety consumer guidance reviewed does not specify a standard draining time for home use."},{"question":"Is the washing method the same if the products come from the same place?","answer":"The place of origin alone does not determine how consumers should wash the product. Check the washing, draining, and storage instructions for the product you actually received."},{"question":"What information should I provide when asking about storage?","answer":"Provide the product name, date labeling, when you received it, and where and for how long it has been stored. Also explain whether it has been opened or washed and when you plan to make kimchi."}],"sources":[{"url":"https://eiec.kdi.re.kr/policy/materialView.do?datecount=\u0026num=194377\u0026pg=\u0026pp=20\u0026recommend=\u0026topic=","title":"KDI Economic Information and Education Center entry for the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety’s “Useful Tips for Using Salted Cabbage Safely During Kimchi-Making Season”, November 13, 2019","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.daegufood.go.kr/kor/board/board.asp?bcate=\u0026board_id=8\u0026gotoPage=49\u0026idx=2021\u0026mode=cont\u0026snm=\u0026srch_Flag=\u0026srch_Word=","title":"Daegu Metropolitan City repost of “Useful Tips for Using Salted Cabbage Safely During Kimchi-Making Season”, November 15, 2019","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.korea.kr/news/interviewView.do?newsId=148802426","title":"Korea Policy Briefing, “Salted Cabbage for Kimchi-Making Season: Use It on the Day of Purchase Whenever Possible”, October 27, 2015","type":"source"},{"url":"https://www.icoop.or.kr/coopmall/goodsmall.phtm?act=detail\u0026gc=64482HP700","title":"Natural Dream 10kg salted cabbage product information, storage instructions and production process for products supplied in 2022","type":"source"}],"images":[{"id":2656,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NDA5MDQsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--453509e28a4697971ee5fbb60182a860c3d3fafe/ai-bae9fb6d.webp","is_representative":true,"generation_method":"ai_photo","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"안경과 노란 앞치마를 착용한 남성이 주방의 큰 금속 대야에서 반으로 자른 절임배추를 씻고 있다.","caption":"절임배추를 가정에서 세척할 때는 3회를 넘기지 않는 것이 좋다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A man wearing glasses and a yellow apron washes a salted napa cabbage half in a large metal basin.","caption":"When washing salted napa cabbage at home, it is best not to exceed three washes.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"眼鏡と黄色いエプロンを着けた男性が、台所の大きな金属製のたらいで半分に切った塩漬け白菜を洗っている。","caption":"塩漬け白菜を家庭で洗う場合は、3回を超えて洗わないことが勧められる。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Un hombre con gafas y delantal amarillo lava media col china salada en un gran recipiente metálico.","caption":"Al lavar col china salada en casa, se recomienda no superar los tres lavados.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Pria berkacamata dan bercelemek kuning mencuci separuh sawi putih asin dalam baskom logam besar.","caption":"Saat mencuci sawi putih asin di rumah, sebaiknya jangan melebihi tiga kali pencucian.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Um homem de óculos e avental amarelo lava meia acelga chinesa salgada em uma grande bacia de metal.","caption":"Ao lavar acelga chinesa salgada em casa, recomenda-se não ultrapassar três lavagens.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名戴眼鏡、穿黃色圍裙的男子，在廚房的大金屬盆中清洗半顆鹽漬大白菜。","caption":"在家清洗鹽漬大白菜時，建議不要超過三次。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Ein Mann mit Brille und gelber Schürze wäscht einen halben gesalzenen Chinakohl in einer großen Metallschüssel.","caption":"Gesalzener Chinakohl sollte zu Hause höchstens dreimal gewaschen werden.","description":null}}},{"id":2657,"url":"https://injoys.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/proxy/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NDA5MTEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--9eb91b5b0af07e8fc81215c428adaf5ac9f89291/ai-498a4640.webp","is_representative":false,"generation_method":"ai_semi","license":"ai_generated","mime_type":"image/webp","width":1536,"height":1024,"translations":{"ko":{"alt":"청록색 조끼를 입은 여성이 절임배추가 든 밀폐 용기를 뚜껑이 열린 김치냉장고에 넣고 있다.","caption":"절임배추의 냉장 보관 가능 기간은 구입한 제품의 안내를 확인해야 한다.","description":null},"en":{"alt":"A woman in a teal vest lowers a sealed container of salted napa cabbage into an open kimchi refrigerator.","caption":"Check the purchased product’s instructions for how long salted napa cabbage can be refrigerated.","description":null},"ja":{"alt":"青緑色のベストを着た女性が、塩漬け白菜の入った密閉容器を、ふたを開けたキムチ冷蔵庫に入れている。","caption":"塩漬け白菜の冷蔵保存可能な期間は、購入した商品の案内で確認する必要がある。","description":null},"es":{"alt":"Una mujer con chaleco verde azulado mete un recipiente cerrado con col china salada en un frigorífico para kimchi.","caption":"Consulta las instrucciones del producto comprado para saber cuánto tiempo se puede refrigerar la col china salada.","description":null},"id":{"alt":"Seorang perempuan memasukkan wadah tertutup berisi sawi putih asin ke dalam kulkas kimchi yang terbuka.","caption":"Periksa petunjuk produk yang dibeli untuk mengetahui berapa lama sawi putih asin dapat disimpan di kulkas.","description":null},"pt":{"alt":"Uma mulher de colete verde-azulado coloca um pote fechado com acelga salgada em uma geladeira de kimchi aberta.","caption":"Consulte as instruções do produto comprado para saber por quanto tempo a acelga salgada pode ser refrigerada.","description":null},"zh-hant":{"alt":"一名穿著藍綠色背心的女子，將裝有鹽漬大白菜的密封保鮮盒放入敞開的泡菜冰箱。","caption":"鹽漬大白菜可冷藏多久，應依所購產品的說明確認。","description":null},"de":{"alt":"Eine Frau stellt einen geschlossenen Behälter mit gesalzenem Chinakohl in einen offenen Kimchi-Kühlschrank.","caption":"Wie lange gesalzener Chinakohl gekühlt aufbewahrt werden kann, ist den Hinweisen des gekauften Produkts zu entnehmen.","description":null}}}],"published_at":"2026-11-10T12:45:16+09:00","updated_at":"2026-11-10T12:45:16+09:00","license":"cc_by","translation_status":"reviewed","available_locales":["ko","en","ja","es"],"data_locales":["ko","en","ja","es","id","pt","zh-hant","de"],"url":"https://injoys.com/en/articles/salted-cabbage-rewashing-and-storage-labels"}