AvoidpreparedCOLLEGE INN· 0.5 POUCH, RECONSTITUTED TO 1 CUP (240ML)
COLLEGE INN CHICKEN BROTH CONCENTRATE, CHICKEN
COLLEGE INN CHICKEN BROTH CONCENTRATE, CHICKEN scores 28/100 (Avoid) due to its **very high sodium content** and classification as an ultra-processed food.
This product received a FoodScore of 28/100, indicating it should be avoided for regular consumption.
The primary nutritional concern is its extremely high sodium content, at 6416.67mg per 100g.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, contributing to its low score.
Compared to a home-cooked broth, this concentrate offers significantly less protein and more sodium.
Use sparingly in recipes, or dilute significantly to manage sodium intake.
Scores -18 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
6416.67mg
279% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (6416.7mg)-12
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 28
COLLEGE INN CHICKEN BROTH CONCENTRATE, CHICKEN received a FoodScore of 28 out of 100, primarily driven by its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food. With 6416.67mg of sodium per 100g, this product incurs a significant penalty, far exceeding the daily recommended limits. The ingredient list includes maltodextrin and corn sugar, which are sources of carbohydrates, though no added sugar is declared per 100g. The product is categorized as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which also contributes a penalty to its overall score. While it contains chicken bone broth, the processing and added ingredients like natural flavors and xanthan gum move it away from a whole food profile. Compared to a home-cooked chicken broth made with whole ingredients, this concentrate lacks the natural protein and micronutrients, while delivering a much higher sodium load.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in college inn chicken broth concentrate, chicken actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenience for Flavoring
This COLLEGE INN chicken broth concentrate offers significant convenience for adding a savory, chicken flavor to dishes. Its concentrated form means a small amount can impart a strong taste, which can be useful when time is limited. It can serve as a quick base for soups, stews, or sauces, reducing preparation time compared to making broth from scratch. This can be particularly helpful for individuals looking to add depth of flavor without extensive cooking.
Low in Calories and Fat
Per 100g, this product is relatively low in calories, providing 125 calories, and contains 8.33g of total fat with 0g saturated and trans fats. When reconstituted as directed, a serving contributes a minimal amount of calories and fat to a meal. This makes it a suitable option for adding flavor to dishes without significantly increasing their caloric or fat content, which can be beneficial for those managing their weight or fat intake.
Versatile Culinary Ingredient
The concentrated nature of this chicken broth makes it a versatile ingredient in various culinary applications. Beyond traditional soups and stews, it can be used to deglaze pans, moisten grains like rice or quinoa, or enhance the flavor of roasted vegetables. Its ease of use allows for quick incorporation into many recipes, providing a consistent chicken flavor profile without the need for fresh chicken or lengthy simmering.
COLLEGE INN CHICKEN BROTH CONCENTRATE, CHICKEN scores 28/100 (Avoid) due to its very high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
Chicken broth concentrate is typically used as a flavor enhancer in cooking, rather than consumed directly. It's designed to be reconstituted with water to form a broth, or added directly in small amounts to dishes. Common pitfalls include using too much, leading to overly salty food, or expecting it to provide significant nutritional value beyond flavor.
Always dilute this concentrate with water according to package directions, or even more, to manage the high sodium content.
Use it as a base for homemade soups and stews, but reduce or eliminate added salt from other ingredients.
Consider pairing with fresh vegetables and lean proteins to create a more nutritionally balanced meal.
For a lower sodium alternative, look for reduced-sodium broths or make your own from scratch.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution with COLLEGE INN CHICKEN BROTH CONCENTRATE is its exceptionally high sodium content. Individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should use this product with extreme caution, if at all. Even for healthy individuals, regular consumption could contribute significantly to exceeding daily sodium recommendations. The presence of maltodextrin and corn sugar, while not contributing added sugar per 100g in this formulation, indicates a level of processing. Those with sensitivities to highly processed ingredients or specific food additives might also consider alternatives.
COLLEGE INN CHICKEN BROTH CONCENTRATE, CHICKEN scores 28/100, classifying it as a food to avoid for regular consumption. Its very high sodium content is the primary nutritional concern, and it is also an ultra-processed food. While it offers convenience and flavor, it does not provide significant beneficial nutrients.
How does COLLEGE INN compare to other chicken broths?
Compared to other chicken broths like Swanson or Pacific Foods, COLLEGE INN CHICKEN BROTH CONCENTRATE is notably higher in sodium in its concentrated form. Many ready-to-use broths offer reduced-sodium options, which would be a better choice for managing sodium intake. A homemade chicken broth would typically contain less sodium and more natural protein and micronutrients.
What is maltodextrin and why is it in this product?
Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from starch, often used as a thickener, filler, or preservative in processed foods. In this chicken broth concentrate, it likely contributes to the product's texture and stability. While generally recognized as safe, it's an indicator of a more processed food item.
What is a reasonable portion size for this concentrate?
A reasonable portion size is 0.5 pouch, reconstituted to 1 cup (240ml), as per the serving size. However, due to the high sodium, it's advisable to use even smaller amounts or dilute it further, especially if you are sensitive to sodium or consuming other salty foods in the same meal. Focus on using it for flavor rather than as a primary liquid.
Can I use this concentrate for drinking directly?
No, this product is not intended for direct consumption as a beverage. It is a highly concentrated broth meant to be diluted or used as an ingredient in cooking. Drinking it directly would result in an extremely high intake of sodium, far exceeding daily recommendations and potentially causing discomfort.