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The 9 Best Bone Broths of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Sip on these Registered Dietitian approved bone broths for a nutrient boost

By
Eliza Savage, MS, RD, CDN
Eliza Savage

Eliza Savage, MS, RD, CDN, RYT is the Associate Editorial Director at Verywell Fit, a registered dietitian, a registered yoga teacher, and a published author. 

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and
Anne Cook Carroll, MS, RD
Anne Cook Carroll Verywell Fit

Anne Cook Carroll is a Registered Dietitian with a master's degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University. She is a dietitian at Culina Health providing nutrition counseling and previously worked at an inpatient hospital.

Learn about our editorial process
Updated on August 24, 2023
Fact checked
Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more.
by
Emily Swaim
Emily Swaim
Fact checked by Emily Swaim

Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.

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Kettle & Fire Classic Bone Broth displayed on a marble counter next to a cup full of liquid and a spoon

Verywell Fit / Jhett Thompson

Bone broth is a stock made by simmering the bones and connective tissue of poultry, meat, or fish, which can be consumed as a beverage or used in cooking. It has gained popularity as a health drink, as it's thought to be healing for everything from the digestive tract to skin and joints, but clinical research is limited. However, bone broth is generally considered to be nutritious because it contains vitamins, minerals, and collagen protein, including essential amino acids.

Bone broth can be made at home using a few ingredients—usually water, animal bones, and veggies—simmered over an extended period of time. But if you're looking for a more quick and convenient option, there are great choices on the market. It's important to note that packaged bone broths can be high in salt, which may not be suitable for those following a low-sodium diet and should generally be consumed in moderation.

To select our list of top bone broths, our dietitians analyzed research, interviewed experts, and evaluated bone broths based on the quality of ingredients and nutritional composition, including sodium and protein content. We tested 16 top-ranked bone broths in our lab by preparing them as instructed by the manufacturer and heating them in a microwave. We then rated them for taste, texture, and smell and combined those results with nutrition and value scores to select our top picks. When selecting the best bone broth for your needs, you may also want to consider form and packaging, for example, frozen, shelf-stable, powdered, and single-serve.

Brodo Hearth Bone Broth

Re spin

Our Ratings
  • Taste
    5/5
  • Smell
    5/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Nutrition
    5/5
Pros
  • Smooth texture and great taste

  • Includes organic ingredients

  • Grass-fed and finished beef and pasture-raised chicken and turkey

  • Versatile

Cons
  • More mild flavor

Brodo's Hearth Bone Broth tops our list for a delicious bone broth with quality ingredients. This broth blend packs in hearty flavor and top nutrition with no concentrates or preservatives, and is also gluten and dairy-free. It is made from a blend of 100% grass-fed beef, organic chicken and turkey, and fresh vegetables, including carrots and celery as well as aromatics like bay leaves.

The texture is smooth with no particles, and thicker than other bone broths we tested. It also has a pleasant salty and buttery aroma. We love the versatility of this mild but delicious flavor, perfect for sipping on its own or as a base to a soup. Each 8.3 ounce serving contains 45 calories and 10 grams of protein. It has a moderate amount of salt with 375 milligrams per serving, giving it great taste without being overly salty.

This product is shelf-stable at room temperature for up to a year, and can be stored in the refrigerator after opening for up to five days. If you consume bone broth regularly, Brodo offers a subscription service to keep your supply stocked. In addition to their Hearth Bone Broth, they offer a variety of blends to choose from, including a spicy option with chili paste and roasted garlic, and Rooted Bone Broth infused with ginger and garlic.

Key specs:
Serving size: 
1 cup | Protein per serving: 10 grams Sodium per serving: 375 milligrams | Calories per serving: 45 | Organic: Includes organic ingredients | Gluten-free: Yes |  Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.

Kettle & Fire Bone Broth Variety Pack

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Taste
    4/5
  • Smell
    4.1/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Nutrition
    4.5/5
Pros
  • USDA Organic

  • Made from free-range chicken bones and grass-fed beef

  • Flavored with organic vegetables, spices, herbs and apple cider vinegar

Cons
  • Packaging is not resealable once opened

  • More mild in flavor, best used for cooking

Kettle & Fire Chicken Bone Broth Variety Pack is a great option to test out both chicken and beef bone broth varieties. These delicious broths are made of all organic ingredients, and is also antibiotic-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free. It’s packed with a ton of veggies, including onions, carrots, fennel, leeks, and shiitake mushrooms, and it is slow-simmered for 14 to 20 hours, giving it a warming, home-cooked flavor.

These broths are more mild in flavor than some of the other options on our list, so would be best used in cooking as a base for a soup, stew, or sauce. It has a slightly thinner, watery texture, but it is smooth and pleasant to drink. Each 1 cup serving contains 40 calories, about 10 grams of protein and between 310-370 grams of sodium, depending on the flavor.

It has a long shelf life and doesn’t require refrigeration until after opening, so you can stock up. It's packaged hot in a vacuum-sealed environment, so the broth lasts longer and tastes better. The recyclable packaging is made of all-natural ingredients, so sipping on the broth is good for you and better for the environment.

Key specs:
Serving size: 
1 cup | Protein per serving: 10 grams Sodium per serving: 310-370 milligrams | Calories per serving: 40 | Organic: Yes | Gluten-free: Yes |  Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.

Bare Bones Bone Broth Instant Powdered Beverage Mix

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Taste
    5/5
  • Smell
    5/5
  • Texture
    4.4/5
  • Nutrition
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Convenient, powdered packets for on-the-go and travel

  • Grass-fed beef

  • 10 grams of protein per packet

Cons
  • Contains stabilizer additives

  • Does not dissolve completely in water

Bare Bones Bone Broth Instant Powdered Beverage Mix packets are the perfect on-the-go option. They come in individual serving packets that can simply be mixed with hot water. You can also use them as a flavor enhancer in broth or stock, or as a seasoning in savory recipes. We like that these packets provide an easy way to boost your protein intake, with 10 grams of protein per packet. They're a great post-workout option to help you rehydrate and replenish electrolytes with 460 milligrams of sodium, and also provides protein to support muscle repair.

This powder does create a thick and pleasant texture, but it does not dissolve completely in water, leaving behind some particles, and residue at the bottom of the cup after stirring. It has a delicious, rich flavor and aroma, similar to a warming bowl of instant ramen.

In addition to the beef flavor, they have chicken, ramen, lemon ginger, mushroom and Thai coconut. Flavoring ingredients include mushrooms, garlic, apple cider vinegar, ginger, lemon and a variety of spices. However, they do contain stabilizers additives including maltodextrin and guar to keep the right consistency of the powder mix.

Key specs:
Serving size: 
1 packet | Protein per serving: 10 grams Sodium per serving: 460 milligrams | Calories per serving: 50 | Organic: No | Gluten-free: Yes |  Shelf-stable: Yes

Pacific Foods Organic Chicken Bone Broth

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Taste
    4.3/5
  • Smell
    4/5
  • Texture
    4/5
  • Nutrition
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Budget-friendly

  • Suitable for low-sodium diets

  • USDA Organic

Cons
  • Has a slight aftertaste

Pacific Foods Organic Unsalted Chicken Bone Broth is an excellent choice for those who want to consume bone broth with a lower sodium content at a budget-friendly price. You can sip it on its own or use it to enhance the flavor and protein content of recipes that call for water or broth.

For a low-sodium option, this bone broth does have some flavor from spices, rosemary, and apple cider vinegar, with a pleasant, earthy aroma. The broth is clear, with no particles and a smooth, slightly thick texture. We did notice a bit of an aftertaste, but it is still enjoyable to drink on its own.

With four servings per 32-ounce container, this organic pick proves that you don't have to sacrifice quality for a budget-friendly bone broth. The savory bone broth has no added sodium, contains 125 milligrams of sodium per cup, and is gluten-free and dairy-free. Since the lower sodium may make it less flavorful to some, you might like to jazz it up with spices like onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, or paprika. If you find it needs more salt, a dash of salt will go a long way.

Key specs:
Serving size: 
1 cup | Protein per serving: 9 grams Sodium per serving: 125 milligrams | Calories per serving: 40 | Organic: Yes | Gluten-free: Yes |  Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.

Zoup! Really Good Chicken Bone Broth

Zoup Broth

Our Ratings
  • Taste
    5/5
  • Smell
    5/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Nutrition
    4/5
Pros
  • Rich, savory, homemade flavor

  • Four simple ingredients

  • Resealable glass container that lasts up to 14 days in the refrigerator after opening

Cons
  • Only 4 grams of protein per cup

For a delicious, versatile, and budget-friendly option, we recommend Zoup Chicken Bone Broth. It has a rich, savory, chicken flavor that tastes like a traditional, homemade chicken broth. It contains just chicken bone broth, natural flavor, yeast extract, and sea salt.

We love the thick, smooth texture of this broth, that has a creamy mouthfeel. It is enjoyable to drink on its own, but would also be a good option to use for cooking. It is relatively high in sodium, with 480 milligrams per cup, so if you are using it for cooking, you likely don't need to add additional salt. It is also lower in protein than some of the other options on our list, with only 4 grams of protein per cup.

Zoup Chicken Bone Broth is non-GMO, and free of gluten, preservatives and artificial ingredients. It comes in resealable, glass jars that are shelf-stable, and once opened, last in the refrigerator for up to 14 days.

Key specs:
Serving size: 
1 cup | Protein per serving: 4 grams Sodium per serving: 480 milligrams | Calories per serving: 15 | Organic: No | Gluten-free: Yes |  Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.

Swanson Sipping Chicken Bone Broth

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Taste
    5/5
  • Smell
    3.7/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Nutrition
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Easy, single-serve, microwavable sipping cup

  • Smooth texture

  • Budget-friendly

Cons
  • Thinner texture and strong smell

  • Not suitable for those with a gluten or wheat allergy

If you're looking for a single-serve bone broth option, try Swanson Sipping Bone Broth, which comes in a microwavable, sippable cup for easy preparation. It contains chicken bone broth, vegetables, tomato paste, salt and spices including parsley and thyme. It has a mild, savory, classic chicken soup taste, with balanced flavors.

Each single-serve cup has 45 calories, 9 grams of protein, and 460 milligrams of sodium. It does contain traces of wheat, so it is not suitable for those with a gluten allergy. The texture of this broth is thinner than others on our list, but it is smooth with no particles and pleasant to sip. We also noticed a pretty strong smell upon opening, but it dissipated when heated, and was still enjoyable to drink.

Key specs:
Serving size: 
1 container (10.75 ounces) | Protein per serving: 9 grams Sodium per serving: 460 milligrams | Calories per serving: 45 | Organic: No | Gluten-free: No |  Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.

Best Pasture-Raised Organic

FOND Chicken Bone Broth

FOND Certified Organic Chicken Bone Broth

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Taste
    4.4/5
  • Smell
    5/5
  • Texture
    5/5
  • Nutrition
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Contains free-range organic poultry and organic vegetables

  • Full-bodied, peasant aroma

  • Resealable glass jars

Cons
  • More mild flavor with a slight aftertaste

  • Higher in sodium

We love that FOND Organic Chicken Broth Contains free-range pasture, organic chicken and organic vegetables. It has a full-bodied aroma, but it more mild in flavor, making a versatile option for sipping or using in cooking. While we did enjoy the flavor and the smooth texture with no particles, it does have a slight aftertaste that lingered.

It comes in shelf-stable glass jars, that can be resealed and stored in the refrigerator after opening. One 14 ounce serving contains 56 calories, 14 grams of protein, and 1,114 milligrams of sodium. While this is a larger serving size, it still contains over 500 milligrams of sodium per cup, which may not be suitable for those on a low-sodium diet.

Key specs:
Serving size: 
14 ounces| Protein per serving: 14 grams Sodium per serving: 1,114 milligrams | Calories per serving: 56 | Organic: Yes | Gluten-free: Yes |  Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.

Bare Bones Grass-Fed Beef Organic Bone Broth

Walmart

Our Ratings
  • Taste
    5/5
  • Smell
    5/5
  • Texture
    4.6/5
  • Nutrition
    4.3/5
Pros
  • Contains organic ingredients and grass-fed beef

  • Rich flavor and thick texture

  • Contains anti-inflammatory ginger and turmeric

Cons
  • Some particles remain at the bottom of the cup after drinking

Bare Bones Grass-Fed Beef Organic Bone Broth tops our list for best beef bone broth with quality ingredients and great depth of flavor. It is made from grass-fed beef bones and oxtail as well as vegetables, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, spices, ginger, turmeric and sea salt.

It has a gelatinous texture when chilled from the collagen contents, but heats up to a smooth, thick texture for a hearty sipping broth. We did notice some particles at the bottom of the cup after pouring out the remainder of the liquid, but you could stir it to fully disperse the contents.

Each 16 ounce serving contains 80 calories, 20 grams of protein and 540 milligrams of sodium. This is a relatively lower sodium content compared to other options on our list at 270 milligrams per cup. We also like that is comes in shelf-stable pouches that have an easy-pouring spout with a resealable cap, that can be refrigerated after opening for later use.

Key specs:
Serving size: 
16 ounces | Protein per serving: 20 grams Sodium per serving: 540 milligrams | Calories per serving: 80 | Organic: Yes | Gluten-free: Yes |  Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.

Ancient Nutrition Bone Broth Protein

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Taste
    4.1/5
  • Smell
    5/5
  • Texture
    3.8/5
  • Nutrition
    5/5
Pros
  • Contains 20 grams of protein per scoop

  • Contains just chicken and beef bone broth protein concentrate

  • Versatile protein powder that can be added to different soups, stews, and sauces

Cons
  • More mild flavor with a slight aftertaste

If you're looking for a convenient, portable, powdered bone broth, we recommend Ancient Nutrition Bone Broth Protein. It contains a blend of chicken and beef bone broth concentrate, with 20 grams of protein per one scoop serving and no additional ingredients.

The powder has an earthy smell but takes on a chicken and beef aroma when mixed into warm water. It has a mild flavor when mixed with water alone, but it would be a great option to add protein and thickness to different soups, stews, or sauces. It mixes well in warm liquid but does not dissolve completely, as we noticed some particles at the bottom of the glass after drinking. The powder does thicken the liquid into a gelatinous-like texture, which some may or may not prefer.

Key specs:
Serving size: 
16 ounces | Protein per serving: 20 grams Sodium per serving: 163 milligrams | Calories per serving: 90 | Organic: No | Gluten-free: No |  Shelf-stable: Yes

How We Tested and Selected

When selecting our top picks for best bone broths, we researched a variety of products on the market, considering nutritional composition (including sodium and protein content), quality of ingredients, taste, consistency, price, availability, packaging and storage. We prioritized products with simple, quality ingredients and considered different forms, including both liquid and powdered options, as well as different types including chicken, turkey, beef, and blends. We also consulted with Alanna Cabrero, MS, RD, CDN, a nutrition counselor based in Brooklyn, New York.

In addition to our research, we tested 16 of the top bone broths in the Verywell Testing Lab by preparing them as instructed by the manufacturer and heating them in a microwave. We then rated them for taste, texture, smell, and combined those results with nutrition and value scores to select our top picks. We rate each powder on a scale of one to five—with five being the best ranking. 

We Also Tested

While not a top pick for any category, we also tested these bone broths and think they are still worth highlighting.

Bonafide Provisions Organic Chicken Bone Broth: We love that this bone broth is USDA Organic and contains bones from free-range chickens. However, we found that it lacked flavor and aroma and had a very watery consistency.

Dr, Kellyann Homestyle Bone Broth Powder: These powdered, bone broth packets are a convenient option for on-the-go and travel. We like that they contain 16 grams of protein per serving, have a moderate amount of sodium at 225 milligrams, and contain cage-free chicken bone broth and grass-fed bovine hydrolyzed collagen. While it has great flavor, it does not dissolve fully in water, leaving a thick and clumpy texture.

Epic Provisions Savory Chicken Bone Broth: This homestyle broth is made with free-range chicken, vegetables, and savory spices including rosemary and turmeric. However, it has a thin and watery texture and very mild flavor, but it would be a good option to use in cooking.

Vital Proteins Bone Broth Collagen: This USDA Organic collagen powder contains just grass-fed and pasture raised beef bone broth collagen concentrate, with 9 grams of protein per scoop and only 70 milligrams of sodium. We chose not to include it on our list because it ranked low for taste and texture, but it could be a good option to add to soups, stews and sauces for a protein boost.

What to Look For in a Bone Broth

Quality

When possible, choose a bone broth that's grass-fed and organic. Quality matters because the process of making bone broth—simmering the bones with water—leaches all the nutrients, collagen, and protein out of the bones. Starting with the highest quality ingredients ensures that your beverage will be as nutritious as possible.

Type

There are various types of bone broth, including chicken, beef, turkey, and even bison varieties. If you are looking for a savory, meaty bone broth, a beef bone broth may be best for you. If you're not a huge meat-eater, you may prefer a poultry-based broth that uses chicken or turkey bones and still offers plenty of the protein and collagen you're looking for.

Packaging

Bone broth comes in a variety of packaging, including shelf-stable, frozen, or fresh. When selecting a bone broth, consider how often you use broth, how much you need, and your storage space. If you drink bone broth daily, it may be more budget-friendly to buy in bulk and store it in the pantry or freezer.

Consistency

In general, bone broth is a thick, slightly viscous beverage. If you prefer a thinner liquid, try a shelf-stable broth, as these are usually less gelatinous than frozen bone broths. Powdered bone broth is also a great option if you prefer a lighter beverage but want ample flavor and nutrition.

Sodium

Always consider the amount of sodium in bone broth. Many companies use sodium as a preservative or for flavoring. If you are sensitive to salt or are watching your sodium intake, you may want to drink a smaller portion of bone broth or select a lower-sodium product.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the benefits of bone broth?

    In general, bone broth is considered to be healthy because it contains vitamins, minerals, and collagen protein, including essential amino acids. The bones used to make bone broth are rich in important minerals including calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and iodine. Collagen is the main source of protein found in bones, tendons, and ligaments, so drinking broth provides amino acids that may support joint health. Bone broth also contains glycine and arginine, amino acids that have anti-inflammatory properties.

    Alanna Cabrero, MS, RD, CDN adds, "Bone broth is a useful beverage for a variety of people, especially those experiencing certain types of gastrointestinal distress. It's a delicious way to rehydrate and replenish after excessive diarrhea or a flare-up of inflammatory bowel disease. However, because of the polysaccharides that may leach from the cartilage as well as the garlic and onions that are usually present in the bone broth, it's not suitable for those with SIBO or people following a low-FODMAP diet."

  • Should you drink bone broth every day?

    The frequency in which you choose to consume bone broth is a personal preference, but it can be enjoyed daily. While you can drink broth alone, you can also use it as a base for soups, sauces, and gravies.

    It is important to note that many bone broths are high in sodium and may not be suitable for daily consumption for those on low-sodium diets. The American Heart Association recommends consuming no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day to support a healthy heart and reduce your risk of high blood pressure. Consider the sources of sodium in your diet and incorporate bone broth accordingly.

  • Does bone broth have anti-inflammatory properties?

    While there is limited research on the health benefits of bone broth specifically, it is rich glycine and arginine, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

  • How much protein is in bone broth?

    A one-cup serving of bone broth from our top picks contains anywhere from four to 20 grams of protein. This varies based on the brand, ingredients, and cooking method.

4 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Li P, Wu G. Roles of dietary glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline in collagen synthesis and animal growthAmino Acids. 2018;50(1):29-38.

  2. Razak MA, Begum PS, Viswanath B, Rajagopal S. Multifarious beneficial effect of nonessential amino acid, glycine: A reviewOxid Med Cell Longev. 2017;2017:1716701.

  3. American Heart Association - Lifestyle & Risk Reduction, High Blood Pressure.

  4. Chen S, Kim W, Henning SM, Carpenter CL, Li Z. Arginine and antioxidant supplement on performance in elderly male cyclists: a randomized controlled trialJournal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2010;7(1):13.

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