Where Can I Find Bone Broth in a Grocery Store?

January 4, 2026 •

4 min read

Recent health trends have significantly increased the demand for nutrient-dense foods, and bone broth is no exception. If you are looking to find bone broth in a grocery store, you should start by checking the soup aisle, but be prepared to explore other sections as well, including the refrigerated and frozen aisles.

Quick Summary

This guide details the specific areas of a grocery store where shoppers can find bone broth, including the soup aisle for shelf-stable cartons, the refrigerated section for fresher versions, and the frozen food aisle for premium options. It also offers advice on different types of packaging and key factors for selecting the best product.

Key Points

Check Multiple Locations: Bone broth is typically found in the soup aisle (shelf-stable), the refrigerated section (near fresh soups), and the freezer aisle.
Look for Simple Ingredients: The best bone broths have a short, recognizable ingredient list, primarily water and bones, without excessive fillers or additives.
Prioritize High Protein: A high-quality bone broth will have a significant protein content, often 8-10 grams or more per serving, indicating a rich collagen extraction.
Choose Low-Sodium Options: To control the seasoning in your cooking, select a low-sodium or unsalted bone broth.
Inspect Packaging: The type of packaging (carton, pouch, tub) can indicate the broth's freshness and processing method, with frozen often being the least processed.
Consider Your Use Case: For sipping, focus on flavor; for cooking, prioritize a versatile, low-sodium option.
Review Sourcing: Look for organic and grass-fed labels for higher-quality ingredients.

Navigating a large grocery store can be a challenge, especially when searching for a specialty item like bone broth. While traditional broths and stocks are often in a single location, bone broth, due to its varied packaging and preparation methods, can be found in several different sections. Knowing which aisle to check first can save you time and help you locate exactly what you're looking for, whether it's a convenient shelf-stable option or a richer frozen variety.

The Three Main Locations for Bone Broth

Shelf-Stable Bone Broth in the Soup Aisle

This is the most common place to find bone broth and is usually the first spot to check. Here, you will find bone broth packaged in familiar cardboard cartons, much like regular chicken or beef stock. These products have a long shelf life and do not need to be refrigerated until they are opened. Many mainstream brands now offer bone broth options alongside their traditional stock products.

Look for: Cardboard cartons (tetra packs) and sometimes glass jars.
Where: Typically with the canned soups, broths, and cooking stocks.
Brands you might find: Kettle & Fire, Pacific Foods, and Swanson.

Refrigerated Bone Broth Near Fresh Soups

A growing number of grocery stores now carry fresh, refrigerated bone broth. These are typically located in the refrigerated section, often near fresh soups, packaged pasta, and other ready-to-eat meals. This type of broth often has a richer, fresher flavor profile and a higher gelatin content due to less processing.

Look for: Clear containers or sometimes pouches.
Where: The refrigerated perimeter of the store, possibly near dairy or fresh deli items.
Brands you might find: Some specialty brands and fresh-made store-brand options.

Frozen Bone Broth in the Freezer Aisle

For the highest-quality and most nutrient-dense options, head to the frozen food section. Frozen bone broths are often made with a longer, slower simmer, which extracts more collagen and minerals from the bones. You will usually find these packaged in pouches or plastic tubs, often in the health-conscious or organic freezer aisle. This is an excellent choice for those seeking a broth that most closely resembles homemade.

Look for: Frozen pouches or tubs.
Where: In the freezers, sometimes with frozen vegetables or other specialty items.
Brands you might find: Bonafide Provisions and some store-specific brands.

Comparison of Bone Broth Types by Location


Feature	Shelf-Stable (Soup Aisle)	Refrigerated (Deli/Dairy)	Frozen (Freezer Aisle)
Convenience	Highest. Easily stored in the pantry.	High. Ready to use, but requires refrigeration.	Lower. Requires thawing before use.
Flavor	Can vary; generally lighter.	Fresher, more robust flavor profile.	Often the richest and most intense.
Nutritional Density	Varies by brand; can be less concentrated.	Good source of collagen and nutrients.	Highest potential for collagen and gelatin.
Cost	Generally the most affordable.	Mid-range price point.	Often the most expensive.
Brands	Kettle & Fire, Swanson, Pacific Foods	Some local brands, larger retailers' own.	Bonafide Provisions, Osso Good.

How to Select the Best Grocery Store Bone Broth

When you've located the bone broth, it's time to choose the best one for your needs. The label is your most important tool. Here's what to look for:

Ingredient List: A high-quality bone broth should have a simple list of ingredients. The first few ingredients should be water and bones (chicken, beef, etc.), followed by vegetables, herbs, and spices. Be wary of broths with added sugars, natural flavors, or long lists of preservatives.
High Protein Content: A key indicator of a true, slow-simmered bone broth is its protein content. Look for products with at least 8-10 grams of protein per serving. This signifies a higher concentration of collagen and gelatin.
Gelatinous Consistency: When a high-quality broth is chilled, it will often turn into a jelly-like consistency due to the collagen content. While you can't test this in the store, a brand known for a gelatinous product is a good sign.
Low Sodium: Many broths and stocks are high in sodium. If you're using the broth as a base for cooking, opt for a low-sodium or unsalted version so you can control the seasoning yourself.
Organic and Grass-Fed: For the highest quality and most ethical sourcing, look for products that are certified organic and made from grass-fed or pasture-raised bones. This helps ensure the animals were raised without antibiotics or hormones.

Conclusion: Your Grocery Store Bone Broth Checklist

Finding bone broth in a grocery store is a multi-step process that starts with knowing where to look. By checking the soup aisle for shelf-stable options, the refrigerated section for fresher versions, and the frozen section for premium products, you can significantly increase your chances of finding a quality product that suits your needs. For the best result, read the labels carefully and prioritize simple ingredients, high protein, and lower sodium content. Whether you're sipping it for wellness or using it as a cooking base, a good grocery store bone broth is a convenient and nourishing addition to your diet.

Reference: A Comprehensive Guide to Store-Bought Bone Broths - Bluebird Provisions

Frequently Asked Questions

Bone broth can be found in several aisles, most commonly the soup and canned goods aisle with shelf-stable cartons, the refrigerated section with fresh soups, and the frozen food aisle.

Not always. While shelf-stable bone broth is typically near regular broths and stocks in the soup aisle, higher-quality, fresher or frozen bone broths are often in the refrigerated or freezer sections.

Bone broth is simmered for a much longer period to extract more collagen, gelatin, and minerals from the bones, making it richer and more nutrient-dense than typical stock. Stock is generally used for cooking bases, while bone broth is often consumed for its health benefits.

Common brands include Kettle & Fire, Pacific Foods, and Swanson for shelf-stable options, and Bonafide Provisions for frozen varieties. Major retailers like Target and Whole Foods also carry house brands.

Freezing is a preservation method that maintains the broth's freshness and nutritional integrity, particularly its high collagen and gelatin content, without the need for preservatives.

Yes, some stores carry powdered bone broth, which is often found in the health foods section or the supplements aisle. It offers a convenient, portable option.

Check the protein content (higher is better), look for a simple ingredient list, and choose brands that are organic or use grass-fed/pasture-raised bones for superior quality.