Better Than Bouillon's Reduced Sodium Offering
Many home cooks seek bouillon alternatives to manage their sodium intake without sacrificing flavor. A significant number of Better Than Bouillon customers report preferring the reduced-sodium options because they can control the final salt level in their dishes. The company addresses this need directly by producing a 'Reduced Sodium' line of products. These are not completely sodium-free but contain significantly less salt than their premium counterparts, aligning with FDA guidelines for 'reduced sodium' claims.
Comparing Reduced Sodium vs. Regular
The most notable difference between the reduced and regular versions is, of course, the sodium content. For example, the Reduced Sodium Roasted Chicken Base has 25% less salt than the Premium Roasted Chicken Base. A customer review on Soups Online confirmed that the reduced-sodium chicken base did not have the overwhelming saltiness of the regular version, making it an excellent choice for adjusting salt levels in recipes. Another major distinction is how each base affects the final dish. Because the regular version is so heavily salted, some find it tastes too intense and suggest it must be diluted even beyond the package instructions. The reduced-sodium version, however, offers a robust flavor without the intense saltiness, giving cooks more flexibility.
Flavor Variety and Usage Tips
Better Than Bouillon's reduced-sodium line extends across several popular flavors. This includes Roasted Chicken, Roasted Beef, and Seasoned Vegetable bases, among others. Users can follow standard reconstitution instructions (typically 1 teaspoon of base per 8 ounces of water) but can also experiment with using smaller amounts to further reduce sodium. This flexibility is one of the product's key strengths. For instance, you can use a dab in sauces, mashed potatoes, or grains for an umami boost without overpowering the dish with salt.
Comparison Table: Better Than Bouillon Regular vs. Reduced Sodium
| Feature | Regular (Premium) Base | Reduced Sodium Base |
|---|---|---|
| Sodium Content | Higher (e.g., 680mg per serving for some flavors) | Lower (e.g., 510mg for beef, 500mg for chicken per serving) |
| Sodium Reduction | Not applicable | Typically 25-26% less than regular varieties |
| Flavor Profile | Intense, very salty; can be overwhelming at full strength | Robust, concentrated flavor with less prominent saltiness |
| Salt Control | Offers less control; requires careful dilution | Gives the cook greater control over the final salt content |
| Availability | Widely available in most grocery stores | Sometimes less common, but available at retailers like Walmart and Amazon |
How to Leverage Reduced Sodium Bases in Your Cooking
- Create Homemade Broth: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of reduced-sodium base into 8 ounces of boiling water to make a full-bodied broth for soups, stews, and sauces.
- Flavor Grains: Add a small amount of vegetable or chicken base to your cooking water when preparing rice, quinoa, or other grains for added flavor.
- Enhance Vegetables: Toss roasted vegetables with a mixture of olive oil and dissolved reduced-sodium base for a flavor punch.
- Perfecting Sauces: Whisk a small amount of base into gravies or other sauces to deepen their flavor profile.
Are There Sodium-Free Alternatives?
While Better Than Bouillon offers reduced-sodium products, it does not produce a completely salt-free version. The company uses salt as a key component for both flavor and preservation. For those seeking a zero-sodium option, homemade stock is the best alternative, as it allows for complete control over ingredients. For store-bought options, look for cartons or boxes explicitly labeled 'no salt added' or 'sodium-free' from other brands. Another excellent alternative is using herbs, spices, citrus, and other flavorful ingredients to build a rich flavor profile without added sodium. For example, mushrooms can provide a powerful umami flavor similar to meat bases. For additional creative, low-sodium cooking ideas, explore resources like The Kitchn's articles on cooking with Better Than Bouillon.
Conclusion
In short, does Better Than Bouillon make a low sodium version? Yes, it provides several reduced-sodium options for a healthier cooking experience. The Reduced Sodium Roasted Chicken, Roasted Beef, and Seasoned Vegetable bases offer a flavorful alternative to the high-salt regular varieties, giving home cooks more control over their sodium intake. While not completely salt-free, they are a significant improvement for those watching their diet. For a true zero-sodium alternative, a homemade stock is the recommended route. The availability and flavor options make the reduced-sodium line a versatile and valuable pantry staple for mindful cooking.
