Is chicken broth ok to eat during Lent?

December 12, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), liquid foods made from meat, such as chicken broth, are not technically forbidden on days of Lenten abstinence. This guideline, however, often causes confusion among the faithful navigating official Church teaching versus traditional practices.

Quick Summary

Current official Catholic guidelines permit liquid foods like chicken broth during Lenten abstinence, though traditional interpretations may advise against it. Observers should prioritize the spirit of penance over strict legalism.

Key Points

Technically Permissible: According to official USCCB guidelines, liquids like chicken broth are not considered 'meat' under Lenten abstinence laws.
Traditional Interpretation: Historically and among some traditionalists, broth derived from meat was also avoided on abstinence days as a deeper penance.
Focus on Intention: The modern Church emphasizes prioritizing the spiritual intention of sacrifice over strict legalistic adherence to food rules.
Inspect Product Labels: While broth is allowed, it is wise to read labels as some products may contain solid meat particles or fat, which fall under the abstinence rule.
Vegetable Broth Alternative: For complete clarity and a deeper sense of sacrifice, using vegetable broth is a universally accepted alternative.

Official Church Stance on Broth During Lent

For many Catholics, the Lenten season brings with it a renewed focus on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, often accompanied by questions about dietary restrictions. The most common question revolves around what is and is not permitted on days of abstinence from meat, specifically Ash Wednesday and all Fridays of Lent. The key to answering this lies in understanding the Church's official definition of "meat."

According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), abstinence applies to the flesh meat of warm-blooded animals (chicken, beef, pork). However, their guidelines state that abstinence does not include meat juices and liquid foods made from meat. Technically, foods like chicken broth, consomme, soups cooked or flavored with meat, gravies, and sauces made from animal fat are not forbidden, provided they do not contain solid pieces of meat.

Modern Interpretation vs. Traditional Practice

While the official stance permits broth, traditional interpretations, often stemming from older practices before the 1983 Code of Canon Law, included avoiding meat broths and animal fats. This stricter view emphasizes avoiding anything derived from meat. The modern guidelines, conversely, focus more on the spiritual meaning of sacrifice rather than rigid legalism.

Comparing Lenten Approaches: Legalism vs. Intentionality


Aspect	Legalistic Interpretation	Intentional Interpretation
Chicken Broth	Technically permissible; rule only prohibits solid meat.	Discretionary; might avoid as a deeper sacrifice.
Focus	Adherence to the letter of the law; what is explicitly forbidden.	The spiritual meaning of penance and self-denial.
Guiding Principle	Can I eat this?	Does this meal truly represent a sacrifice for me?
Alternatives	Not necessary, as broth is technically allowed.	Opt for vegetable broth to clearly honor the spirit of abstinence.

Making the Right Choice for Your Lenten Observance

To have a meaningful Lent, consider the intention behind your sacrifice beyond just what is officially permitted. Prioritize the penitential spirit; if chicken broth feels too comfortable, a vegetable alternative might be a better sacrifice. Always read labels, as some products might contain powdered chicken or solid meat particles. Vegetable broth is a clear and simple substitute that aligns with the spirit of abstinence. Remember, fasting and abstinence are part of a larger Lenten focus that includes prayer and almsgiving.

A Deeper Meaning Behind the Rules

Lenten rules aim to foster humility and detachment, connecting observers to Christ's suffering. While technically allowed, foregoing chicken broth can be a deeper act of self-denial. This personal decision contributes to a meaningful spiritual transformation. Consulting a priest can provide guidance for individual circumstances. The goal is spiritual growth, not just dietary compliance.

Conclusion

Whether chicken broth is acceptable during Lent involves both official guidelines and personal interpretation. Officially, it's permissible on abstinence days as it's a liquid derived from meat, not solid flesh. However, those following stricter traditions or seeking greater sacrifice might choose to avoid it. The Church encourages focusing on the spiritual intent of uniting with Christ through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, rather than getting overly concerned with dietary specifics. An intentional choice makes the Lenten journey meaningful.

For more detailed information on official Catholic Lenten regulations, consult the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, according to official Catholic guidelines from the USCCB, abstinence laws define meat as flesh from land animals and birds, excluding liquid derivatives like broth.

Yes, a soup that contains no solid meat but is made with chicken broth is technically permissible on Lenten Fridays and Ash Wednesday under current Church law.

Similar to broth, bouillon is a concentrated meat flavoring and is technically permissible under modern regulations, provided it does not contain solid meat.

Many traditional Catholics follow older, stricter rules that prohibited meat broth on days of abstinence, preferring to make a more significant sacrifice.

Given the official Church position, consuming broth is not considered a sin. The emphasis is on the penitential spirit, so a person's intention is key.

Current regulations and past dispensations allow for the use of animal fats and condiments in food preparation, though traditionalists may advise against it.

Vegetable broth is an excellent and readily available substitute that aligns perfectly with the penitential spirit of Lent.