Is Soup Broth High in Carbs? The Surprising Truth

November 4, 2025 •

4 min read

For those on a low-carb diet, the good news is that most simple soup broths contain very few carbohydrates, with many types like bone broth being nearly carb-free. However, the ingredients and method of preparation can significantly impact the final carb count, making it crucial to choose wisely.

Quick Summary

Soup broth is generally very low in carbohydrates, especially pure bone and meat-based varieties. The carb content can increase with added vegetables, starches, or flavorings, requiring careful label checking for low-carb diets.

Key Points

Bone Broth is Virtually Carb-Free: Pure bone broth, derived from simmering animal bones, contains almost zero carbohydrates and is a staple for keto dieters.
Vegetable Broth Has More Carbs: Vegetable broth typically has a small but higher carb count than bone broth, as it extracts natural sugars from vegetables during simmering.
Stock is Higher in Carbs than Broth: Stock generally contains more carbohydrates, fat, and protein than broth due to its longer cooking time and use of bones and cartilage.
Added Ingredients Increase Carbs: Be cautious of high-carb vegetables like potatoes or starches and sugars used for thickening in both homemade and store-bought broths.
Homemade Offers Better Control: Making broth from scratch gives you complete control over ingredients, ensuring no hidden carbs from additives found in some commercial products.
Use Low-Carb Thickeners: To thicken broth without adding significant carbs, consider alternatives like xanthan gum, heavy cream, or pureed low-carb vegetables.

The Nutritional Breakdown of Broth

At its core, broth is a simple liquid made by simmering meat, bones, or vegetables in water. The exact nutritional content, including the presence of carbohydrates, varies significantly based on the source and preparation method. A basic broth made from animal bones and water is naturally very low in carbohydrates, as bones contain minimal carbs. Instead, they provide proteins like collagen and gelatin, which are beneficial for joint and gut health. Vegetable broths, on the other hand, derive their flavor from vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. During the simmering process, some of the natural sugars from these vegetables can transfer into the liquid, resulting in a slightly higher carb content than bone broth.

How Carbs End Up in Your Broth

While broth can be a low-carb base, it’s important to be aware of ingredients that can unintentionally increase the carb load. For many dieters, homemade broth is a safer bet, as it allows for full control over every ingredient. For instance, thickening a soup with a starch-based roux or adding high-carb vegetables like potatoes or corn can quickly change a low-carb broth into a carb-heavy soup. Many commercial broths also contain hidden carbs in the form of added sugars, flavor enhancers, or starches for thickening. This is why reading the nutrition label is paramount for those on strict diets like keto. The label will reveal the total carbohydrates per serving, allowing you to make an informed choice.

Comparing Broth Types: Animal vs. Vegetable

When choosing a broth, understanding the fundamental differences between animal-based and vegetable-based options is key to controlling carb intake. Bone broth is a favorite among keto dieters for its low-carb profile, high protein content, and rich flavor. Vegetable broth is a great option for those following a plant-based diet, but careful selection is needed due to its higher carb content compared to bone broth.

Broth vs. Stock: The Carb Distinction

Another crucial distinction is between broth and stock. While often used interchangeably, these liquids have different carb profiles. Stock is typically simmered longer and made from bones and cartilage, creating a thicker, more gelatinous liquid. Broth is usually made with meat and simmers for a shorter time, resulting in a thinner, clearer liquid. As a result of the different cooking methods, stock contains slightly more fat, protein, and carbohydrates than broth. For example, one comparison shows stock having 8.5 grams of carbs per cup, while a comparable broth has only 3 grams.


Feature	Bone Broth	Vegetable Broth	Stock
Primary Ingredients	Animal bones, sometimes meat	Vegetables, herbs, water	Bones, cartilage, meat scraps
Carb Count	Often 0-1g per cup	1-3g+ per cup	Generally higher than broth
Protein	High protein (collagen)	Low protein	Moderate protein
Best for Keto	Yes, very low-carb	Yes, but check label	Less ideal due to higher carbs
Flavor Profile	Rich, savory	Lighter, vegetal	Robust, unseasoned

How to Thicken Low-Carb Broths

If you want to add a thicker consistency to your low-carb soup or sauce without adding carbs, there are several excellent options available. Many traditional thickeners rely on flour or cornstarch, but these are high in carbohydrates. Here are some keto-friendly alternatives:

Xanthan Gum: This is a powerful, low-carb thickening agent. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly to avoid a slimy texture. It’s best to whisk it into a small amount of fat or liquid before adding it to the main pot.
Heavy Cream: For creamy, rich soups, heavy cream is an excellent, low-carb choice. It adds both thickness and a decadent flavor. Just be sure to heat it gently to prevent curdling.
Pureed Vegetables: Certain low-carb vegetables, such as cooked cauliflower or zucchini, can be pureed and added back to the broth to increase thickness without a major carb impact.
Pureed Avocado: Blending a portion of the soup broth with avocado can create a creamy and thick consistency, perfect for cold soups or adding a healthy fat boost.
Reduction: The simplest method is to simmer the broth uncovered for an extended period, allowing some of the water to evaporate. This naturally concentrates the flavors and thickens the liquid.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Broth Wisely

In summary, soup broth is not inherently high in carbs. Bone broth is especially low in carbohydrates and a great source of protein and other nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to a keto or low-carb diet. Vegetable broth contains slightly more carbs but remains a suitable choice with careful ingredient selection. The main carb culprits are often hidden additives in commercial products or high-carb thickeners and vegetables. To ensure your broth stays low-carb, opt for homemade versions or scrutinize the nutrition labels of store-bought varieties. Ultimately, with a little awareness, you can enjoy the flavorful, nourishing benefits of soup broth while easily managing your carb intake. For a deeper dive into the differences between stock and broth, check out this guide from Healthline.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, plain chicken broth is typically very low in carbohydrates, often containing around 1 gram or less per cup. The carb count can rise if it contains added starches, sugars, or high-carb vegetables.

Yes, most vegetable broths are keto-friendly, generally containing 1 to 3 grams of carbs per serving. However, always check the label for added sugars or starches, which could increase the carb count.

Store-bought broths can contain carbs from added ingredients like flavorings, sugars, or preservatives. Always check the nutrition facts label, and opt for brands with no added sugars or thickeners for the lowest carb count.

Bone broth is often the best choice for low-carb and keto diets because it's virtually carb-free and packed with protein and electrolytes, which can help combat symptoms of the keto flu.

While some carbs from vegetables like carrots can be absorbed into the broth, the amount is usually minimal. For very strict low-carb diets, using fewer or lower-carb vegetables is a safer approach.

You can use low-carb thickeners such as xanthan gum, heavy cream, pureed cauliflower, or simply reduce the broth by simmering it longer.

Yes, stock is typically higher in carbs, fat, and protein than broth. Stock is cooked longer with bones and cartilage, whereas broth is cooked with meat and is usually clearer and thinner.

Yes, bone broth is particularly helpful for managing keto flu symptoms. It is rich in electrolytes and minerals that help balance your system as your body adjusts to using fat for fuel.