Your Guide to Choosing the Right Bone Broth
Choosing the best bone broth for your needs depends on several factors, including your health goals, budget, and how you plan to use it. While many brands tout impressive claims, the quality comes down to the sourcing of the bones, the cooking process, and the absence of unwanted additives. Premium bone broths often use bones from grass-fed and pasture-raised animals, simmer them for long periods to maximize nutrient extraction, and avoid artificial flavors, preservatives, and excessive sodium.
What to Look for in High-Quality Bone Broth
When you're perusing the aisles or browsing online, keep these key indicators of quality in mind:
- Quality Ingredients: Look for bones from grass-fed, grass-finished beef or pasture-raised, organic chicken. High-quality broths will list real vegetables, herbs, and spices rather than "natural flavors."
- High Protein Content: Bone broth is a good source of protein, especially collagen. The protein content per serving should be relatively high, ideally 9 grams or more.
- Low Sodium: Many commercial broths are loaded with sodium. Opt for low-sodium or unsalted varieties to control your intake, as some brands can exceed 450mg per cup.
- Gelatinous Consistency: A sign of a high-quality broth is that it gels or solidifies when chilled. This indicates a high concentration of collagen and gelatin, which are beneficial for joint and gut health.
- No Additives: Avoid broths that contain preservatives, fillers, yeast extracts, or added sweeteners. The cleanest labels will have simple, recognizable ingredients.
Top Brands Compared
| Brand | Format | Notable Qualities | Best For... | Sodium Content | Protein Content | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kettle & Fire | Shelf-stable liquid (Tetra Pak) | Wide variety of flavors, organic ingredients (mostly), reliable quality. | All-purpose cooking and sipping. | Moderate to High (varies by flavor) | ~9-10g per cup | Mid-range |
| Bonafide Provisions | Frozen liquid (pouch) | Small-batch, organic, frozen to preserve quality, often more gelatinous. | Traditional bone broth enthusiasts, those prioritizing gelatin. | Moderate | ~9g per cup | Higher-end |
| Bluebird Provisions | Powder (pouch) | Very high protein, low sodium, sustainable practices. | High-protein diets, convenience, lowest sodium. | Very Low (~130mg) | ~12g per cup | Mid-range |
| Bare Bones | Instant Powder (stick packs) | Great for on-the-go, mixes easily, individual servings. | Travel, post-workout, quick prep. | Moderate to High | ~10g per serving | Mid-range |
| FOND Bone Broth | Liquid (glass jar) | Chef-crafted flavors, unique herbal infusions, uses regenerative sourcing. | Sipping, unique flavor profiles. | Moderate to High (varies by flavor) | ~9g per cup | Higher-end |
| Swanson Sipping | Shelf-stable liquid (cup) | Highly convenient, microwaveable, budget-friendly. | On-the-go, budget-conscious consumers. | Moderate to High | ~9-10g per cup | Budget-friendly |
Formats: Liquid, Powder, or Frozen?
- Shelf-Stable Liquid: Convenient and easy to store in your pantry until opened. Brands like Kettle & Fire and Swanson offer ready-to-use cartons and cups. These are excellent for those who want bone broth on hand without needing freezer space. However, some processing may affect flavor and nutritional content compared to fresh options.
- Frozen Liquid: Often considered the closest to homemade, frozen broths like Bonafide Provisions lock in nutrients and flavor at their peak. They tend to have a thicker, more gelatinous texture. The main drawbacks are the need for freezer space and a longer prep time to thaw.
- Powder: Powdered bone broth, from brands such as Bluebird Provisions and Bare Bones, offers ultimate convenience and portability. It requires simply mixing with hot water. While great for travel, some powdered versions can have a less robust, more processed flavor and a different mouthfeel.
Final Recommendation: Making Your Choice
For the best all-around quality and nutrition, brands like Bonafide Provisions and FOND Bone Broth stand out, though they command a higher price. They use premium ingredients and traditional slow-simmering methods. If you prioritize convenience, Kettle & Fire offers a versatile, shelf-stable option that is widely available. For budget-conscious or on-the-go lifestyles, Bluebird Provisions (powder) and Swanson Sipping (liquid cups) are solid choices, though you may compromise slightly on the natural depth of flavor or sodium control.
Ultimately, the best bone broth for you will depend on your priorities. Consider your primary use case—daily sipping, cooking, or convenience—and select a brand that aligns with your ingredient and nutritional preferences. It's always best to check the label for simple, clean ingredients, low sodium, and high protein to ensure you're getting the most out of your purchase.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making dietary changes.
