How to choose a GOOD quality bone broth!
KNOW YOUR BROTH
Broth is the word on everyone's lips, and for excellent reason. When you get broth right, it's VERY GOOD for your immunity, gut, skin and general health. It's a kitchen and immune-boosting superstar in so many ways.
BUT… buying broth can be confusing. There are powders, concentrates, stocks, packets, tins and jars. Where would you even start?
Luckily, we know a thing or two about broth and what's GOOD (for you!) and are here to help.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A BROTH…
We take broth very seriously here at Undivided, which is why we only use organic bones and ingredients in our GOOD BONES range! But if you’re buying other products, here’s what to look for.
Does it wobble like jelly?
The best indicator of nutrient-dense bone broth is that gelatinous jelly-like wobble! After all, this is the whole reason you’re consuming bone broth!
How can you test the wobble from a powder or concentrate?
A simple test you can do is hydrate according to instructions, bring to the boil, refrigerate then compare the wobble!
Are the bones organic?
We’re all about organic here, as we believe that’s what makes the best (for you) broth. But check the label and make sure that at least the bones are organic. We believe that a GOOD broth should be made from bones from organic, pastured, antibiotic-free, and grass-fed animals…
Why is organic so important with broth?
The term organic means that no chemical fertilisers, pesticides, growth hormones and or antibiotics are used throughout the production process. Studies show that if animals are exposed to chemicals and toxins, they are absorbed through the bones and into the marrow. During the low and slow cooking process of bone broth, the bones and the added veggies and herbs are broken down. If non organic ingredients are used, these harmful substances are released into the broth and passed onto those consuming it. In a nutshell, if your broth isn’t organic, you could be consuming commercial chemicals, pesticides, antibiotics and growth hormones.
How long was it cooked for?
Broth should be simmered low and slow. To get technical, good quality bone broths need a slow and gradual cooking time in order to extract the collagen, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), vitamins and minerals from the bones. High heat damages these nutrients.
Our chicken broth is simmered for over 12 hours and beef broth is simmered for over 24 hours. It’s something to check on the label of broths, and if it’s not included on their label, it could be a sign of cutting corners.
How much sodium does it contain (particularly for little ones)?
Broth concentrates and powders contain much higher sodium content than liquid bone broth so it’s always good to check the label.