Factors Defining a Healthy Bone Broth
When evaluating which brand of bone broth is the healthiest, several key factors distinguish superior products from lesser ones. A quick glance at the label isn't enough; digging deeper into a brand's sourcing, ingredients, and processing methods is essential for making an informed choice.
Quality Sourcing and Ingredients
- Pasture-Raised and Grass-Fed Bones: Healthy animals produce higher-quality bones. For beef, look for grass-fed and grass-finished bones. For chicken, ensure the birds are pasture-raised.
- Organic Vegetables: Added aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery should be organic to avoid pesticide residue leaching into your broth.
- Minimal and Transparent Ingredients: The healthiest broths have a short, recognizable ingredient list: bones, water, vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. Avoid brands with artificial flavors, gums, or excessive preservatives.
Nutritional Content
- High Protein Content: Aim for at least 8–10 grams of protein per serving. This is a sign of a high-quality broth that has been simmered long enough to extract maximum nutrients.
- Low Sodium: Excessive sodium can negate many health benefits. Look for low-sodium or unsalted varieties to control your intake, which is especially important for those with blood pressure concerns.
- Collagen and Gelatin: A good bone broth will naturally gel when refrigerated, which indicates a high concentration of collagen and gelatin, beneficial for gut health and joints.
Processing and Packaging
- Long Simmer Times: Traditionally, bone broth is simmered for 12–48 hours to extract the maximum amount of collagen, amino acids, and minerals.
- Heavy Metal Testing: Reputable brands, like FOND, test their products for heavy metals like lead and arsenic, ensuring safety.
- Eco-Friendly Packaging: Choosing brands that use glass jars or recyclable pouches (like Bluebird Provisions) reduces plastic and environmental impact.
Healthy Bone Broth Brand Comparison
| Brand | Protein per Cup | Best For | Sourcing | Form | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluebird Provisions | 12g (powder) | High-protein, low-sodium powder | Pasture-raised chicken | Powder | Excellent for adding protein to smoothies or other dishes |
| Bonafide Provisions | 10g (liquid) | Closest to homemade taste, frozen | Organic, grass-fed beef/free-range chicken | Frozen Liquid | Gelatinous texture, simple ingredients |
| Kettle & Fire | 9.5-10g (liquid) | Versatile shelf-stable sipping broth | Grass-fed beef/free-range chicken | Shelf-Stable Liquid | Widely available, variety of flavors |
| FOND Bone Broth | 11g (liquid) | Unique flavor profiles, heavy metal testing | Regeneratively-raised beef/pasture-raised chicken | Shelf-Stable Liquid | Packaged in glass, low-FODMAP options available |
| Gourmend Foods | High | Digestive sensitivities, low FODMAP | Organic, grass-fed beef/humanely-raised chicken | Shelf-Stable Liquid | Free from onion and garlic triggers |
Bluebird Provisions: Best for High-Protein Powder
Bluebird Provisions is often cited as the healthiest bone broth on the market, particularly its chicken bone broth powder, offering an impressive 12 grams of protein per serving with zero carbs and zero fat. The low sodium content (130 mg per serving) and transparent sourcing of pasture-raised chicken bones make it a top contender for daily sipping or boosting protein intake without excess salt. Its powdered form is also highly convenient for travel.
Bonafide Provisions: Best Frozen Option
For those who prefer a liquid broth and want a product as close to homemade as possible, Bonafide Provisions is a standout. Consumer Reports noted its clean flavor and gelatinous body, a key indicator of high collagen content. It uses organic, grass-fed, and pasture-raised ingredients and is shipped frozen to preserve quality without preservatives.
Gourmend Foods: Best for Digestive Sensitivities
Individuals with IBS or other digestive issues may struggle with the high-FODMAP ingredients like onion and garlic commonly found in broth. Gourmend Foods is specifically formulated to be low FODMAP, using alternatives like chives and scallion tops to deliver flavor without the triggers. This brand prioritizes sensitive stomachs while maintaining organic, high-quality sourcing.
The Verdict: Which Brand to Choose?
Ultimately, the healthiest bone broth for you depends on your personal health goals and preferences. For maximum protein and convenience, Bluebird Provisions is an excellent choice. If you prefer a liquid broth that mimics homemade quality, Bonafide Provisions is the best frozen option. For those with sensitive guts, Gourmend Foods offers a specialized, trigger-free product. When shopping, always prioritize transparency in sourcing, high protein, and low sodium. The best approach may be to try a few high-quality options to see which suits your taste and health needs best.
Harvard Health Publishing discusses why high-quality protein is important.
Conclusion: Making the Best Choice for Your Health
While homemade bone broth is ideal for controlling ingredients, several high-quality commercial brands provide convenient, nutrient-dense alternatives. When selecting a store-bought brand, focus on sourcing (grass-fed, organic), a high protein-to-sodium ratio, and minimal additives. Whether you opt for a powder like Bluebird Provisions for maximum protein, a frozen liquid like Bonafide for a homemade feel, or a low-FODMAP option like Gourmend, choosing a reputable brand that prioritizes real ingredients is the key to reaping the full health benefits of bone broth.
