How Many Calories Are in 1 Cup of Bone Broth?

November 3, 2025 •

3 min read

A standard cup of bone broth often contains a low number of calories, typically ranging from 30 to 60. The exact count of how many calories are in 1 cup of bone broth depends heavily on factors like preparation methods, ingredients, and the removal of fat.

Quick Summary

The number of calories in a single cup of bone broth depends on several factors, including the type of bones, fat content, and added ingredients. This savory beverage is generally low in calories.

Key Points

Calorie Range: A standard cup of bone broth typically contains 30-60 calories, depending heavily on its preparation.
Fat Content Matters: The primary factor influencing the final calorie count is whether the fat has been skimmed from the surface.
Nutrient-Dense: Despite being low in calories, bone broth is rich in protein and amino acids that aid satiety and health.
Control with Homemade: Making your own bone broth allows for precise control over ingredients, fat, and concentration, resulting in a customizable calorie count.
Beef vs. Chicken: Calorie differences between beef and chicken bone broth are generally minor, with variations in collagen and mineral profiles being more notable.
Keto-Friendly: With virtually no carbohydrates, bone broth is an excellent and hydrating choice for keto and other low-carb diets.

The calorie count for bone broth is not a fixed number; it's a dynamic figure influenced by several key variables. For most people, a cup of bone broth is a very low-calorie addition to their diet, but understanding the details can help with precise meal planning, especially for those on restrictive diets like keto or those counting calories for weight management.

Factors Influencing Bone Broth Calories

The total energy content of your bone broth is primarily determined by its macronutrient profile, mainly protein and fat. The carbohydrates present are typically negligible unless a significant amount of starchy vegetables are used and not strained out. The following factors play the most crucial role:

Type of Bones and Animal

Beef Bones: Beef bone broth may contain more collagen (specifically Type III) and protein per gram. If fat is removed, a 1-cup serving can range from 30 to 45 calories.
Chicken Bones: Chicken bone broth can yield a high amount of Type II collagen and often falls within the 30-60 calorie range.

Fat Content and Removal

Skimming the Fat: The biggest factor in calorie content is removing the fat cap after refrigeration. Fat has 9 calories per gram. Removing it can reduce a 50-75 calorie cup to 30-45 calories.

Preparation and Ingredients

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Homemade allows control over concentration and ingredients. Some store-bought options may have thickeners or higher fat.
Added Ingredients: Vegetables strained out have minimal caloric impact. Adding oil or butter will significantly increase calories.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Bone Broth


Feature	Homemade Bone Broth	Store-Bought Bone Broth
Calorie Control	High. You can control fat content and concentration.	Low. Depends entirely on the brand's recipe.
Ingredient Control	High. You know exactly what goes in.	Low. Must rely on label; some may contain additives.
Flavor Profile	Customizable. Can be tailored to personal preference with herbs and spices.	Fixed. Flavor profile is set by the manufacturer.
Typical Calories/Cup	30-60 (varies based on fat skimming).	30-60 (varies by brand and formulation).
Cost	More cost-effective, especially when using leftover bones.	Can be more expensive, especially premium brands.
Nutrient Density	Often higher, especially with a long simmer time and acid (like vinegar) to extract minerals.	Varies significantly. Look for labels detailing protein and collagen content.
Convenience	Low. Requires time and effort for simmering.	High. Ready to heat and serve.

The Low-Calorie Powerhouse

Bone broth is considered a nutritional powerhouse due to its protein and amino acid content. Benefits include:

Supports Weight Management: Protein and gelatin can promote fullness, reducing appetite.
Boosts Gut Health: Amino acids may help repair the gut lining and reduce inflammation. Gelatin supports digestion.
Aids Joint Health: Glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen support cartilage and joint maintenance.
Promotes Healthy Skin: Collagen is crucial for skin elasticity, with beef broth (Type III collagen) noted for skin benefits.
Enhances Immune Function: Amino acids in bone broth may support the immune system with anti-inflammatory properties.

To make your own, combine bones, water, apple cider vinegar, and optional vegetables and herbs. Simmer for 12-24 hours. Strain and chill to easily remove fat, ensuring a low-calorie broth.

For more detailed information on bone broth's health benefits and preparation, see this comprehensive guide on Healthline.

Conclusion

In summary, while there is no single answer to exactly how many calories are in 1 cup of bone broth, it is consistently a very low-calorie beverage. Expect anywhere from 30 to 60 calories per cup, depending on ingredients and preparation, particularly fat removal. Choosing a low-fat homemade version or checking store-bought labels allows you to enjoy this nutritious drink for weight management and overall wellness without significant caloric impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, bone broth is considered a very low-calorie food, with an average cup containing between 30 and 60 calories, making it suitable for weight management.

The calorie count is influenced by whether the fat is removed, the type and amount of bones used, and any extra ingredients added, like vegetables or oils.

Yes, removing the fat cap that forms when the broth is chilled is the single most effective way to reduce the calorie count, as fat is a high-calorie macronutrient.

Not necessarily. Homemade broth allows for better control, but some store-bought varieties are formulated to be low in calories. Always check the nutrition label for the specific product.

The calorie count is generally comparable and within the same range. Differences are typically minimal and are more related to overall concentration and fat content rather than the animal source itself.

Yes, adding vegetables for flavor is a common practice and adds very few calories, especially if they are strained out before drinking. Adding fats like oils, however, will increase calories.

Its high protein and gelatin content helps promote satiety, making you feel full for longer and reducing overall calorie consumption throughout the day.

Check the nutrition label for low or zero-fat content and a minimal amount of added ingredients. Look for products that list a high protein content relative to their calories.