'Please Don't Buy This:' Walmart Shoppers Can't Stand This Kimchi Brand

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Walmart may be the top grocery chain in America (and has stores in other countries), and part of its success is its wide variety of products and low prices, but sometimes you get what you pay for, as the saying goes. That's apparently the case with one organic kimchi brand you'll find on Walmart's shelves that many shoppers can't stand: Ocean's Halo Kimchi.

Walmart shoppers have plenty to say about this brand Some unhappy customers writing on its product page have stated that it's not like kimchi at all. "This is not fermented kimchi," said one, "this is a moderately spicy sauerkraut. Do not purchase if you want traditional Korean kimchi." Others echoed that sentiment, urging other shoppers to steer clear.

Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made of fermented vegetables. The primary ingredient is Napa cabbage, along with other veggies like radishes, garlic, and chili peppers, as well as additions including spices, fish sauce, or shrimp paste. Once fermented, this creates an incredibly deep, complex flavor profile that combines spicy, umami, sour, and more in one dish. It's also highly versatile, as you can use kimchi to upgrade tuna salad sandwiches, put it on pasta, or have it with most anything else. Usually, kimchi is a tasty dish that can complement anything or be enjoyed solo ... but that's when it's good kimchi. When it's not, it can be just a jar of disappointment. 

More specifically, some shoppers writing on Walmart's page complained that Ocean's Halo didn't use the right kind of cabbage for Korean kimchi, forgoing the standard Napa cabbage for a potentially cheaper variety. "Not made with Napa cabbage but green cabbage," one alleged. While kimchi can use different types of cabbage, Napa is traditional, so customers looking for genuine Korean kimchi flavor and texture may be disappointed.

There have even been reported issues with the packaging. More than one customer has received a faulty product, especially when ordering delivery. "Sometimes the jar becomes unsealed and leaks," said one. "It came in a pick up order. When I got it home today [...] I saw that it had expired almost six months ago!" claimed another. Any broken seals on grocery products are clearly a big problem, especially given that kimchi only lasts about a week after opening. If you do choose to try Ocean's Halo for yourself, it's probably best to buy it in-store.