Which Bone Broth Has the Highest Protein?

December 22, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutrition experts, bone broth can offer a significant protein boost, with commercial products varying widely in content. For those prioritizing protein intake, finding out which bone broth has the highest protein is key to maximizing nutritional benefits in soups, stews, and hot drinks.

Quick Summary

This guide compares the protein content of various commercial bone broth products and highlights factors that influence protein levels, including concentration and bone type. It helps consumers identify the most protein-dense options for their dietary needs.

Key Points

Concentrated Options Offer Higher Protein: Powdered and concentrated liquid bone broths typically provide the most protein per serving because water has been removed.
Remedy Bone Broth is a Top Performer: With 20g of protein per 8oz serving, Remedy Bone Broth stands out as a high-protein, concentrated liquid option.
Check Product Format and Serving Size: Always compare protein content based on the stated serving size, as powders and liquids have different volumes and concentrations.
Protein Content Varies by Bone Source and Simmering: The type of bone (beef vs. chicken), bone-to-water ratio, and simmer time all influence the final protein level.
Collagen is the Primary Protein: Most protein in bone broth comes from extracted collagen, which breaks down into beneficial amino acids during the cooking process.
Some Brands Add Collagen for a Boost: Certain products are enhanced with additional collagen peptides or protein isolates to increase their total protein count per serving.

Finding the Most Protein-Rich Bone Broth

Protein content in bone broth is not uniform and depends heavily on the preparation method and source materials. While homemade broths can be tailored for high protein, many consumers rely on convenient store-bought or powdered options. The highest protein versions often come from concentrated liquids or powders, which have a significantly higher protein-to-volume ratio than standard sipping broths.

How Protein is Measured in Bone Broth

Protein content on nutritional labels can sometimes be misleading, especially with products rich in collagen. Bone broth’s protein content is largely collagen, which is broken down into smaller amino acid chains during cooking. Standard analytical methods, like Kjeldahl or Dumas, measure total nitrogen content and then estimate protein using a conversion factor, but this can sometimes overestimate protein by including non-protein nitrogen compounds. However, reputable brands that prioritize protein content often use standardized lab testing to ensure accuracy.

Comparing Brands for Maximum Protein

Several commercial brands stand out for their high-protein offerings. Products are available in various forms, including ready-to-drink cartons, concentrated powders, and frozen pouches. Powdered and concentrated varieties typically contain the highest protein per serving due to the removal of water.

Factors Affecting Protein Content

Several key factors determine the final protein levels in bone broth:

Bone-to-Water Ratio: A higher ratio of bones to water during the simmering process results in a more concentrated and protein-rich broth.
Simmer Time: Extended simmering, often 12 to 24 hours, allows for maximum extraction of collagen and other protein compounds from the bones and connective tissues.
Animal Source: The protein profile can vary between animal species. Beef broth often provides collagen types I and III, while chicken broth is rich in type II collagen. Some brands claim chicken broth can have higher overall protein due to bone concentration.
Added Ingredients: The addition of vegetables or other ingredients can dilute the protein concentration, though some functional broths add protein isolates to boost the total grams per serving.

Top Contenders for Highest Protein Bone Broth

Here is a comparison table of several leading bone broth products known for their protein content:


Brand	Product Type	Stated Protein per 8oz Serving	Key Features
Remedy Bone Broth	Concentrated Liquid	20g	High bone-to-water ratio, high collagen, frozen product
Brite Start Bone Broth	Concentrate Packets	20g	Convenient single-serve, free-range chicken, keto & paleo friendly
Kettle & Fire	Concentrated Liquid	19g (Chicken)	Shelf-stable, organic, traditionally simmered
Ancient Nutrition	Powder	20g per scoop	Powdered format, versatile for mixing, blend of beef and chicken
Bare Bones	Powder	10g	Instant powdered mix, strong flavor, beef source
Dr. Kellyann	Collagen Powder Packets	16g	Low sodium option, easy-to-mix, collagen powder base
Bluebird Provisions	Powder	12g (Chicken)	Minimally processed, pasture-raised chicken, low sodium

It is important to read the nutritional facts carefully, as the serving size for these products can vary. For instance, a liquid broth's serving size is typically 8 ounces, while powders list protein per scoop.

The Takeaway for Maximum Protein

For those seeking the highest protein per serving, powdered concentrates are typically the most reliable choice, as water has been removed to leave a dense protein product. Among liquid concentrates, certain brands like Remedy Bone Broth use a higher bone ratio to deliver exceptional protein levels. However, personal dietary needs and taste preferences should also influence the final choice. Some consumers may prefer the taste profile of a liquid broth, while others value the versatility and portability of a powder. By understanding the different factors and product types, you can select the best option to achieve your protein goals.

Conclusion

Determining which bone broth has the highest protein involves looking beyond the basic label and understanding the product's format and sourcing. While fresh liquid broths like those from Remedy Bone Broth can deliver up to 20 grams per serving, powdered concentrates from brands such as Ancient Nutrition or Brite Start consistently offer high protein concentrations by removing excess water. Ultimately, the "highest protein" broth for an individual depends on a balance between protein density, taste, convenience, and dietary preferences. For those aiming to maximize their protein intake, selecting a concentrated powder or a traditionally made, high-density liquid broth is the most effective strategy. Always verify specific nutritional information, as product formulations and protein claims can vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

This can vary by brand and concentration. Some brands report their chicken broth as having slightly more protein due to higher bone concentrations used, while others show beef having a similar or slightly lower count. It is best to compare labels directly for specific products.

While bone broth provides beneficial amino acids, it lacks the full spectrum of essential amino acids found in a complete protein source. It is best to use it as a supplement to a balanced diet rather than a primary protein source.

Longer simmering times, typically over 12 hours, help to break down collagen in the bones and release more amino acids into the broth, which can result in a more protein-rich final product.

For pure protein concentration, powders are often superior as they have had water removed. However, liquid broths offer a broader nutritional profile, including naturally occurring electrolytes and minerals.

Adding a small amount of an acid like apple cider vinegar can help break down bones and connective tissue, potentially aiding in the extraction of more minerals. However, it's not the primary driver of high protein content, and studies show limited increases in mineral content under normal cooking conditions.

High-quality bone broths will often gel when refrigerated, indicating a high concentration of collagen. Look for brands that use high bone-to-water ratios, transparent sourcing, and minimal additives.

Bone broth protein powder is dehydrated bone broth, containing collagen plus other nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin. Collagen peptides are isolated and hydrolyzed collagen protein, typically more concentrated but without the additional compounds.