J Nutr Health.  2024 Dec;57(6):547-559. 10.4163/jnh.2024.57.6.547.

The scientific considerations to evaluate the nutritional and health functional value of bibimbap

• Park JE
• Cha YS

• KMID: 2564163
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4163/jnh.2024.57.6.547

Abstract

Purpose
Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish that has gained global recognition owing to its unique combination of flavors and nutritional balance. The dish is made by mixing cooked rice with various ingredients, including seasoned vegetables, marinated meat, fermented condiments, and healthy oils. This dish represents Korean culinary culture and offers potential health benefits because of its balanced nutritional composition. The primary objective of this review was to examine the nutritional value, functional properties, and cultural significance of bibimbap. By analyzing bibimbap through traditional and modern scientific perspectives, this study aimed to highlight its role as a nutritious, balanced, and globally recognized dish.
Methods
This review used a systematic literature review approach to examine the nutritional value and functionality of bibimbap.
Results
Bibimbap is a nutritionally balanced dish that incorporates a variety of food groups. Rice provides complex carbohydrates, offering sustained energy, while vegetables contribute essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Protein is supplied by meat, and healthy fats come from vegetable oil. Bibimbap also embodies the traditional Korean philosophy of ' Five Elements Theory,' symbolized by the five colors of its ingredients: white, red, blue, yellow, and green. These colors represent balance and harmony and align with modern nutritional science, which emphasizes the health benefits of diverse food components. Although existing studies suggest that bibimbap may have functional properties, such as anti-cancer, antioxidant, and immune-enhancing effects, the current research on its specific health benefits is limited.
Conclusion
Although bibimbap shows promise in terms of its functional health benefits, further research will be needed to substantiate these claims. This review highlights the potential of bibimbap as a globally recognized healthy dish while preserving its cultural identity. These findings highlight the need for additional research to explore and understand the health-promoting properties of bibimbap.

Keyword

bibimbap; health benefit; nutritional value