Can You Buy Gluten-Free Chicken Broth at the Store?

Over 3 million people in the United States have celiac disease, requiring a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. These individuals, along with those with gluten sensitivities, often wonder: can you buy gluten-free chicken broth? While basic chicken broth ingredients are naturally gluten-free, many commercial products contain hidden gluten and cross-contamination risks, making careful label-reading essential for safe consumption.

Quick Summary

Many store-bought chicken broths contain gluten from additives like thickeners or flavorings. Shoppers can find certified gluten-free options by carefully reading labels, checking for allergen statements, and identifying suspect ingredients. Numerous trusted brands offer clearly labeled gluten-free varieties for safe cooking.

Key Points

• Check for Certification: The most reliable way to ensure safety is to look for a certified gluten-free label from a third-party organization on the packaging.

• Be Wary of Hidden Gluten: Some commercial broths use thickeners, flavorings, and yeast extracts that can contain gluten. Always read the ingredient list carefully.

• Avoid Cross-Contamination: For celiacs, products not labeled as certified gluten-free carry a risk of cross-contamination from shared manufacturing facilities.

• Trust Reputable Brands: Several brands, including Swanson, Pacific Foods, and Imagine Foods, offer clearly labeled, verified gluten-free broths and bouillon.

• Homemade is Safest: Making your own chicken broth at home provides absolute control over ingredients and eliminates any risk of gluten contamination.

• Understand Label Language: Terms like 'natural flavor' can hide gluten unless accompanied by a certified gluten-free mark.

Navigating the Grocery Aisle: How to Find Gluten-Free Chicken Broth

For those with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, shopping for pantry staples can be a challenge. Chicken broth, a seemingly harmless product, is often a source of confusion. The good news is that yes, you can buy gluten-free chicken broth, but the process requires diligence. While the core components of broth—chicken, vegetables, and water—are naturally gluten-free, the modern manufacturing process can introduce gluten in unexpected ways. This guide will walk you through the specifics of finding safe, store-bought chicken broth, understanding product labels, and identifying brands you can trust.

Why Commercial Broths May Contain Gluten

Many consumers are surprised to learn that a chicken-based product could contain gluten. The issue arises from the use of specific additives during the production of many conventional broths and stocks. Manufacturers often add ingredients to enhance flavor, color, or thickness, and these additives can harbor gluten.

• Natural Flavors: This vague term is a common culprit. According to the FDA, if a 'natural flavor' contains wheat, it must be listed in the allergen statement. However, if it contains barley-derived ingredients like yeast extract, it may not be explicitly listed. For certified gluten-free products, the source of the natural flavor is guaranteed to be safe.
• Yeast Extract: A popular flavor enhancer, yeast extract can be made from a variety of sources. If it is produced using barley, it may contain a level of gluten that is unsafe for those with celiac disease. Unless a product is explicitly certified gluten-free, yeast extract is considered a high-risk ingredient.
• Thickeners: Some low-quality broths or stock concentrates may use wheat flour as a thickener to create a more viscous consistency.
• Cross-Contamination: Even if a product is made with naturally gluten-free ingredients, it can become contaminated if it is processed on shared equipment or in a facility that also handles gluten-containing products. This is a significant risk for those with celiac disease.

The Importance of Certified Labeling

To ensure complete safety and peace of mind, the most reliable method is to look for a certified gluten-free label on the product packaging. This mark, issued by a third-party organization, signifies that the product and its manufacturing facility have been rigorously tested and meet strict standards, usually less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. Simply relying on an ingredient list can be risky due to hidden gluten sources like natural flavors or the potential for cross-contamination. Many broth and bouillon companies offer products specifically verified for gluten-free diets, simplifying the purchasing process significantly.

Leading Brands that Offer Gluten-Free Chicken Broth

Fortunately, a growing number of brands cater to the gluten-free market with dedicated product lines. Always remember to check for the most current information, as product formulations can change. Reputable brands that offer certified gluten-free options include:

• Swanson: A long-standing name in broths, Swanson offers several products labeled and verified as gluten-free, including their Low Sodium Organic Chicken Broth and Organic Chicken Stock.
• Pacific Foods: This brand offers a range of organic and free-range chicken broths and bone broths, many of which are certified gluten-free.
• Imagine Foods: Known for its organic products, Imagine provides several certified gluten-free chicken broth and bone broth options.
• Kettle & Fire: A popular bone broth company, Kettle & Fire specializes in gluten-free products and clearly labels its packaging.
• Kirkland (Costco): The store's organic chicken stock is a reliable certified gluten-free option.
• Kitchen Basics: A well-regarded brand with several gluten-free labeled broths and stocks.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: A Comparison

Feature	Homemade Chicken Broth	Certified Gluten-Free Store-Bought Broth	Conventional Store-Bought Broth
Control over Ingredients	Maximum. You choose every single ingredient, ensuring no risk of hidden gluten.	High. Products are verified, and ingredient lists are transparent and tested.	Low. Risk of hidden gluten from thickeners, flavorings, and cross-contamination is present.
Convenience	Low. Requires more time for preparation, simmering, and straining.	High. Ready to use right out of the box or can.	Highest. Widely available and often the cheapest option, but not safe for sensitive diets.
Flavor Profile	Customizable. You can adjust herbs, vegetables, and seasonings to your preference.	Consistent. Flavor is standardized but high quality for certified brands.	Variable. Quality can differ significantly between brands; may taste artificial due to additives.
Cost	Potentially Lower. Can be made using leftover chicken carcasses and vegetable scraps.	Potentially Higher. Specialty products often cost more per unit.	Lowest. Mass-produced broths are generally the most budget-friendly.
Cross-Contamination Risk	Zero. If prepared in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.	Minimal to None. Guaranteed by third-party certification.	High. Requires careful reading of allergen warnings and understanding the risks.

Conclusion: Making the Safest Choice for Your Kitchen

To confidently answer the question, "Can you buy gluten-free chicken broth?"—yes, absolutely. However, the convenience of store-bought broth comes with the caveat that not all products are created equal regarding gluten content. A homemade chicken broth offers the ultimate control over ingredients, eliminating all risk. For a quicker and equally safe option, seek out products with a certified gluten-free seal or a clear label from reputable brands that test their products for gluten. By understanding the potential sources of gluten and knowing which brands to trust, you can ensure your culinary creations are both safe and full of flavor. Always check the labels, and when in doubt, choose a certified product or make your own from scratch.

Homemade Gluten-Free Chicken Broth Recipe

For those who prefer a completely controlled and safe broth, here is a simple recipe to make your own. This guarantees a delicious and naturally gluten-free product for all your cooking needs.

Ingredients:

• 1 chicken carcass (from a roast or leftover bones)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2-3 carrots, roughly chopped
• 2-3 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley)
• 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
• 1 bay leaf
• 12-16 cups water
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast (Optional): For deeper flavor, roast the chicken carcass and vegetables in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes until browned. This step enhances the richness of the final broth.
2. Combine: Place the chicken carcass, roasted or raw vegetables, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaf into a large stockpot.
3. Simmer: Pour in the water, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer.
4. Cook: Simmer, uncovered, for at least 4 hours, and up to 12 hours for a more flavorful, nutrient-dense bone broth. Skim any foam that rises to the top during the first hour of cooking.
5. Strain: Once finished, turn off the heat and use a fine-mesh sieve to strain the broth into a large, clean bowl. Discard all the solids.
6. Season and Store: Add salt to taste. Let the broth cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for refrigeration or freezing.

Enjoy your safe, flavorful, and delicious homemade gluten-free chicken broth in soups, sauces, and countless other dishes.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of gluten-free eating is easier today than ever before, but it still requires attention to detail, especially with processed pantry items like chicken broth. By prioritizing products with clear gluten-free certification, you can confidently and safely incorporate this kitchen staple into your diet. For those with severe sensitivities or a desire for maximum control, making a simple, savory batch at home is always the best solution. With the right information, finding safe gluten-free chicken broth is no longer a guessing game but a straightforward part of your shopping routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is all chicken broth gluten-free by nature?

No, not all chicken broth is naturally gluten-free once processed. While the basic ingredients (chicken, water, vegetables) are gluten-free, many commercial broths contain additives like 'natural flavors' or yeast extract, which can be derived from gluten sources like barley.

How can I tell if a store-bought chicken broth is gluten-free?

To identify a safe chicken broth, look for a 'certified gluten-free' label from a recognized third-party organization. You should also check the ingredient list for any potential gluten-containing ingredients such as wheat flour, barley, or undeclared yeast extract.

What are some specific ingredients in broth that could contain gluten?

Common hidden gluten sources include wheat flour used as a thickener, yeast extract that may be derived from barley, and 'natural flavors' that do not specify a gluten-free source.

Which brands offer certified gluten-free chicken broth?

Several brands, including Swanson, Imagine Foods, Pacific Foods, Kitchen Basics, and Kettle & Fire, offer certified or clearly labeled gluten-free chicken broths. Always double-check the specific product you are buying.

Is there a difference in gluten content between chicken broth and chicken stock?

The gluten risk is similar for both. Like broth, commercial chicken stock can contain gluten additives or be at risk for cross-contamination. Always check for a gluten-free label on both products.

Can I trust 'natural flavors' if the product isn't certified gluten-free?

It is not safe to assume that a product with 'natural flavors' is gluten-free unless it also has a certified gluten-free seal. Without certification, the flavor may be derived from a gluten-containing source like barley, which does not have to be explicitly listed as an allergen.

Is making homemade chicken broth a safe alternative?

Yes, making chicken broth at home is the safest and most reliable way to ensure it is completely gluten-free. By using simple, whole ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and herbs, you have total control over the process and eliminate any risk of gluten contamination.