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 contains anywhere from 9 to 20 grams of protein. This varies based on the brand and cooking method. Osso Good Organic Chicken Bone Broth has the highest amount of protein on our list with 33 grams in one serving (2 cups).

The 9 Best Bone Broths of 2023

The 8 Best Bone Broths, According to a Dietitian — Verywell / Chloe Jeong

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 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. We considered a variety of factors when selecting our top picks including ingredient quality, type, packaging, sodium content, consistency, and flavor.

Here are our top picks for bone broth.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Bonafide Provisions Organic Chicken Bone Broth at Amazon

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Best Organic:

Kettle & Fire Bone Broth Variety Pack at Amazon

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Best for On-the-Go:

Bare Bones Bone Broth Instant Powdered Beverage Mix at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Pacific Foods Chicken Bone Broth at Amazon

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Best No Salt Added:

Osso Good Chicken Bone Broth at Amazon

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Best Tasting:

Brodo Hearth Bone Broth at Amazon

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Best Powder:

Vital Proteins Beef Bone Broth Collagen at Amazon

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Best for GERD:

Osso Good Organic Chicken AIP Compliant Bone Broth at Ossogood.life

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look for
FAQ

4.6

Amazon

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Pros

Organic ingredients
Organic Free-Range Chicken Bones is the first ingredient
Fresher than shelf-stable options

Cons

Requires freezing or refrigerating

If you're looking for a great-tasting, collagen-rich bone broth, Bonafide Provisions Organic Chicken Bone Broth is an excellent choice. The USDA Organic, gluten-free broth is made from free-range chicken bones, so you know you're getting the highest quality nutrition. Bonafide Provisions slow-simmers the chicken bones for 18 to 24 hours using only filtered water, garlic, onion, parsley, sea salt, and apple cider vinegar.

Bonafide Provisions is frozen rather than shelf-stable, so the broth is 100% fresh and untouched by stabilizers. Freezing locks in the flavor and keeps nutrients at their peak. You can keep it frozen for up to one year or use within seven days of refrigeration.

Price at time of publication: $90 ($0.62 / Fl Oz)

^{Key specs:
Serving size: 1 cup | Protein per serving: 10 grams | Sodium per serving: 280 milligrams | Calories per serving: 45 | Organic: Yes | Shelf-stable: No | Gluten-free: Yes}

Amazon

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Pros

Organic ingredients
Made from free-range chicken bones and grass-fed beef

Cons

Packaging is not resealable once opened

Kettle & Fire Chicken Bone Broth takes our top spot among organic bone broths thanks to its exceptional taste, nutritional content, and value. Made of all organic, non-GMO ingredients, this broth 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 rich, home-cooked flavor.

Plus, 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.

Price at time of publication: $35 ($0.52 / Oz)

^{Key specs:
Serving size: 1 cup | Protein per serving: 10 grams | Sodium per serving: 310-330 milligrams | Calories per serving: 45 | Organic: Yes | Gluten-free: Yes | Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.}

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Pros

Convenient, powdered packets for on-the-go and travel
Grass-fed beef
10 grams of protein per packet

Cons

Contains stabilizer additives

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.

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.

Price at time of publication: $28 ($1.75/Serving)

^{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}

Amazon

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Pros

Budget-friendly
Suitable for low-sodium diets
Organic ingredients

Cons

Less flavorful than other options

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.

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, containing only 90 milligrams of sodium per cup and is gluten-free and dairy-free. Since the lower sodium may make it less flavorful, 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.

Price at time of publication: $9 ($0.26 / Oz)

^{Key specs:
Serving size: 1 cup | Protein per serving: 9 grams | Sodium per serving: 90 milligrams | Calories per serving: 45 | Organic: Yes | Gluten-free: Yes | Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.}

Amazon

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Pros

Organic ingredients
Suitable for low-sodium diets
Made in small batches

Cons

Requires freezing or refrigeration

Many bone broth products are full of extra sodium that boosts flavor and functions as a preservative to extend shelf life. For those who are watching their sodium intake, a bone broth with no added salt like Osso Good's Organic Chicken Bone Broth is an excellent choice, with 115 milligrams of sodium per cup.

Packed with nutrient-dense, organic ingredients, Osso Good Organic Chicken Bone Broth is made in small batches to ensure that the quality and taste are consistent. With no added salt or preservatives, Osso Good Bone Broth requires freezing for longer-term storage and refrigeration for thawing.

Price at time of publication: $72 (10.99 / Pouch)

^{Key specs:
Serving size: 1 package (2 cups) | Protein per serving: 15 grams | Sodium per serving: 230 milligrams | Calories per serving: 80 | Organic: Yes | Gluten-free: Yes | Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.}

Pros

Rich in flavor
Made from 100% grass-fed beef bones

Cons

1,000 milligrams of sodium per serving

For a delicious, single-serve, ready-to-sip bone broth that's made with 100% grass-fed beef bones, EPIC's Beef Jalapeño Sea Salt Bone Broth takes the top pick. This certified gluten-free beverage tastes great and has a spicy kick, perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base to soups and stews. It's made with onions, celery, carrots, mushrooms, jalapeño pepper, garlic, sea salt, apple cider vinegar, and thyme.

We like that Epic Provisions promotes sustainable farming and improved animal welfare standards. They partner with The Savory Institute to source ingredients from farms and ranches that use holistic land management and livestock-raising practices. Once you open the artisanal broth, it's best to refrigerate it and consume it within seven days.

It's important to note that this product contains 1,000 milligrams of sodium per serving, which is quite a high amount of sodium and may not be suitable for those on a low-sodium diet, those with high blood pressure, or individuals that are generally salt sensitive. On the other hand, if you are losing a lot of salt through high intensity exercise in hot conditions, vomiting or diarrhea, or have salt retention disorders such as adrenal insufficiency, you may benefit from a higher sodium intake, and it's a good idea to discuss appropriate intakes with a healthcare provider.

Price at time of publication: $50 ($0.60/ Fl Oz)

^{Key specs:
Serving size: 1.75 cups (414 grams) | Protein per serving: 9 grams | Sodium per serving: 1000 milligrams | Calories per serving: 45 | Organic: No | Gluten-free: Yes | Shelf-stable: Yes, before opening.}

Amazon

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Pros

Rich in flavor
Includes some organic ingredients
Grass-fed and finished beef and pasture-raised chicken and turkey

Cons

Expensive
Requires freezing or refrigerating

If you're looking for the best-tasting bone broth with quality ingredients, try Brodo's Hearth Bone Broth. The frozen-fresh broth packs in hearty flavor and top nutrition with no concentrates or preservatives, and is also gluten and dairy-free. The nourishing beverage is made from a blend of 100% grass-fed beef, organic chicken, organic turkey, and fresh vegetables, which creates a deep savory flavor that complements the hearty, rich consistency.

It's shipped frozen and keeps well in the refrigerator for one week or in the freezer for up to one year. If you consume bone broth regularly, Brodo offers a subscription service to keep your supply stocked.

Price at time of publication: $14

^{Key specs:
Serving size: 1 cup | Protein per serving: 9 grams | Sodium per serving: 350 milligrams | Calories per serving: 45 | Organic: Includes organic ingredients | Gluten-free: Yes | Shelf-stable: No}

Amazon

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Pros

Organic, grass-fed, pasture raised beef
Suitable for low-sodium diets
Contains just one ingredient

Cons

Less flavorful than other options

If you're looking to reap the benefits of bone broth but prefer a product that is shelf-stable, easy to travel with, and very low in sodium, you may prefer a powder bone broth supplement such as Vital Proteins Bone Broth Beef Collagen. It mixes easily into hot water or tea as well as stews, soups, and sauces.

Made from the bones of grass-fed, pasture-raised cows, the powder is rich in amino acids and nutrients. One scoop of the USDA Organic powder contains 9 grams of protein, and just 70 milligrams of sodium. The powder also contains collagen, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid, which studies show may improve joint function in people with early-stage osteoarthritis.

Price at time of publication: $50 ($5 / Oz)

Osso Good

View On Ossogood.life

Pros

Free of common ingredients that can trigger GERD
Organic ingredients
33 grams of protein per serving

Requires freezing or refrigerating
Expensive

Bone broth contains glycine, which may help quell digestive issues such as acid reflux or GERD, though research is limited. Made from all organic, non-GMO ingredients, this broth from The Osso Good Company is also Autoimmune Protocol Compliant, making it free of ingredients such as onions, garlic, peppercorns, and tomatoes, which can trigger GERD in some individuals. It also contains 33 grams of protein per serving, about three times as much as other options. This amount of protein is more than enough to meet the protein per meal requirements for most people, including most athletes.

This simple broth is made of only three ingredients: filtered water, organic chicken bones, and apple cider vinegar. It's free of gluten, dairy, artificial colors, and flavors. Slowly simmered for up to 24 hours, the broth is highly gelatinous, rich, and has a full-bodied flavor that can enhance the taste of soups, stews, rice, quinoa, sauces, gravy, and other recipes. It comes frozen and lasts up to 75 days unopened and refrigerated.

Price at time of publication: $72 ($11 / Pouch)

^{Key specs:
Serving size: 1 package (2 cups) | Protein per serving: 33 grams | Sodium per serving: 310 milligrams | Calories per serving: 130 | Organic: Yes | Gluten-free: Yes | Shelf-stable: No}

How We 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.

We also consulted with Alanna Cabrero, MS, RD, CDN, a nutrition counselor based in Brooklyn, New York.

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 contains anywhere from 9 to 20 grams of protein. This varies based on the brand and cooking method. Osso Good Organic Chicken Bone Broth has the highest amount of protein on our list with 33 grams in one serving (2 cups).

Learn More: How Protein Fits in a Healthy Diet