What is the Healthiest Brand of Bone Broth?

October 22, 2025 •

4 min read

Over 70% of the body's immune system resides in the gut, and bone broth is known for its gut-healing properties. But finding the healthiest brand of bone broth can be tricky, given the wide range of products on the market with varying ingredient quality and nutritional content. This guide cuts through the noise to help you make an informed decision.

Quick Summary

This article evaluates several top bone broth brands based on sourcing, ingredients, nutrient density, and sodium content. It compares liquid and powdered options to help you choose the best fit for your dietary needs.

Key Points

Sourcing is Key: Look for bone broth made from bones of grass-fed cattle and free-range chickens to ensure high quality and nutrient density.
Check Protein and Collagen Content: High protein, especially in the form of collagen and gelatin, indicates a longer simmer time and more potent broth.
Beware of High Sodium: Many commercial brands are high in sodium. Opt for low-sodium or unsalted versions for better health control.
Read Ingredient Labels: The healthiest broths have simple, whole-food ingredients and avoid artificial flavors, thickeners, or preservatives.
Consider Your Needs: Choose between liquid (frozen or shelf-stable) and powdered forms based on convenience, storage, and preferred use.
Seek Transparency: The best brands are transparent about their sourcing and preparation methods, guaranteeing a cleaner, more nutritious product.

Finding the Healthiest Bone Broth: Key Factors to Consider

When evaluating what is the healthiest brand of bone broth, it's crucial to look beyond marketing claims and focus on a few key metrics. High-quality bone broth should be made from responsibly sourced bones, contain a rich nutritional profile, and be free from unnecessary additives. The process, typically a long, slow simmer, is essential for extracting beneficial collagen, amino acids, and minerals from the bones.

Quality of Sourcing

The source of the bones is arguably the most important factor in determining a broth's quality. Look for brands that use bones from grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle and organic, free-range chickens. This ensures the animals were raised without antibiotics or hormones and had a more natural diet, leading to a more nutrient-dense and cleaner broth. Brands like FOND and Bonafide Provisions emphasize this commitment to high-quality, humane sourcing.

Nutritional Profile: Protein and Collagen

A truly healthy bone broth should be packed with protein, primarily in the form of collagen and gelatin. This is what gives homemade broth its signature gel-like texture when chilled. Brands that achieve a high gelation indicate a longer simmer time and more potent extraction of nutrients. Kettle & Fire and Bluebird Provisions are often cited for their high protein and collagen content, which support joint health and skin elasticity.

Ingredients and Additives

The healthiest broths use a minimal, clean ingredient list. Be wary of brands that include artificial flavors, thickeners like gums, or excessive amounts of yeast extract. Brands focusing on gut health, like Gourmend Foods, specifically avoid high-FODMAP ingredients like onions and garlic for those with digestive sensitivities, using alternatives like chives and leek greens. Simple, whole-food ingredients like organic carrots, celery, and herbs are best for flavor and purity.

Sodium Content

Sodium levels can vary drastically between commercial bone broth brands, with some containing a quarter or more of the daily recommended intake per serving. Health-conscious consumers should look for low-sodium or unsalted options, such as Pacific Foods Organic Unsalted Chicken Bone Broth, which provides excellent flavor control for those managing their sodium intake.

Comparison of Top Bone Broth Brands


Brand	Sourcing	Key Feature	Protein/Serving	Sodium/Serving	Packaging	Best For
Kettle & Fire	Organic, grass-fed/free-range	Shelf-stable liquid, high-protein	10-19g (Varies by product)	330-465mg (Varies by product)	Tetra Pak Carton	General sipping & cooking, keto/paleo diets
Bonafide Provisions	Organic, free-range	Frozen liquid, excellent gelation	~10g	300-400mg	Frozen pouch/container	Quality ingredients, traditional recipe
FOND Regenerative	Regenerative, grass-fed/free-range	Infused with unique herbs/spices	~11g	~580mg	Glass Jars	Unique flavor, gut health support
Bluebird Provisions	Pasture-raised	Low-sodium powdered broth, high-protein	12g	130mg	Powder pouch	On-the-go convenience, lowest sodium
Gourmend Foods	Organic, grass-fed/humanely-raised	Low-FODMAP, gut-friendly	~9-10g	Unsalted options	Shelf-stable carton	Sensitive stomachs, IBS, low-FODMAP diet

Different Forms of Bone Broth: Liquid vs. Powder

Your choice of bone broth form also impacts its healthiness and convenience. Liquid broths, like those from Kettle & Fire and Bonafide Provisions, are pre-made and ready to use, often requiring refrigeration after opening. Frozen options like Bonafide can be perceived as fresher but require freezer space. Powders, such as Bluebird Provisions, offer convenience for travel and require no refrigeration, making them easy to incorporate into a daily routine, though they need to be mixed with water.

How to Choose the Healthiest Bone Broth for You

Ultimately, the "healthiest" bone broth depends on your personal needs. For the absolute highest standard of sourcing and traditional preparation, a frozen liquid broth like Bonafide Provisions may be ideal. For those on the go who prioritize low sodium and high protein, a powder like Bluebird Provisions is a strong contender. Kettle & Fire offers a widely accessible, high-quality shelf-stable option for everyday use, and Gourmend specializes in meeting the needs of those with sensitive digestive systems. Consider your personal health goals, dietary restrictions, and lifestyle to find the perfect fit. Reading labels and checking for the key factors discussed here will always be your best bet for making a healthy choice.

Conclusion

While many brands offer quality products, there is no single "healthiest brand of bone broth" that fits everyone. The best choice is one that aligns with your specific health priorities, whether that's sourcing, sodium content, or digestive support. By understanding what to look for—from pasture-raised ingredients and clean labels to nutrient density and convenience—you can select a bone broth that genuinely supports your wellness journey. Always check the label and prioritize transparency in sourcing and minimal additives for a truly healthy product. For further reading, an excellent resource on the nutritional properties of bone broth can be found at the Cleveland Clinic website.

Frequently Asked Questions

A high-quality store-bought bone broth should have a simple ingredient list, use bones from grass-fed or free-range animals, and may turn gelatinous when refrigerated, which indicates a high concentration of collagen.

Yes, bone broth powder can be just as healthy as liquid broth, provided it is minimally processed and made from quality ingredients. Many powders retain high protein and collagen levels and offer convenience for travel or storage.

Brands like Gourmend Foods are specifically formulated for gut health, offering low-FODMAP options without common irritants like onions and garlic. The amino acids and gelatin in any high-quality bone broth are generally beneficial for the gut lining.

Unsalted bone broth, like Pacific Foods Organic Unsalted Chicken Bone Broth, allows for more control over sodium intake, which is beneficial for those monitoring blood pressure or following specific dietary protocols.

Yes, high-protein bone broth can support weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness and providing sustained energy. A brand like Bluebird Provisions offers a high-protein, low-calorie, and low-sodium option that is ideal for weight management.

Most high-quality bone broths, including Kettle & Fire and FOND, are suitable for keto and paleo diets as they are high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is always best to check the specific product's nutritional information.

Bone broth is typically simmered for a longer time than stock (over 12 hours) to extract more collagen, minerals, and nutrients, giving it a thicker, more gelatinous texture. Stock is often cooked for a shorter period and used primarily for its flavor base.