COLLEGE INN Turkey Broth scores 39/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **ultra-processed NOVA class 4 designation** and **high sodium content**.
This product received a FoodScore of 39/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It contains 412.08mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, this is an ultra-processed food with multiple added ingredients.
Compared to homemade turkey broth, this SKU offers minimal micronutrients.
Use in small quantities to add flavor, being mindful of the sodium contribution.
Scores -7 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0.42g
1% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.29g
1% of Daily Value
Sodium
412.08mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (412.1mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 39
COLLEGE INN Turkey Broth receives a FoodScore of 39 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of 10 points. Ultra-processed foods often contain ingredients and additives not typically found in home kitchens, such as yeast extract and natural flavors, which are present in this broth. Another major factor is the high sodium content, at 412.08mg per 100g, resulting in a 1-point penalty. While the product is low in calories (4 per 100g) and free of total fat and fiber, it also provides negligible amounts of essential micronutrients, with 0% DV for potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and all listed vitamins. It contains 0.29g of added sugar per 100g, which is a minor amount but still contributes to its processed nature. When compared to a home-cooked turkey broth made from whole ingredients, this COLLEGE INN product lacks the naturally occurring vitamins and minerals found in a less processed alternative.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in college inn, turkey broth actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Low Calorie Flavor Base
COLLEGE INN Turkey Broth can serve as a low-calorie base for soups, stews, and gravies. With only 4 calories per 100g, it allows for the addition of flavor without significantly increasing the caloric density of a meal. This can be beneficial for individuals managing their calorie intake while still seeking to enhance the taste of their dishes. It provides a savory foundation that can be built upon with nutrient-dense whole foods.
Convenient Culinary Ingredient
This broth offers culinary convenience for home cooks. Its ready-to-use format saves time compared to preparing homemade broth from scratch, which involves simmering bones and vegetables for hours. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, having a shelf-stable broth like this on hand can facilitate quicker cooking, making it easier to prepare meals at home rather than relying on takeout. It can be used in a variety of recipes.
Hydration Support
As a liquid, COLLEGE INN Turkey Broth can contribute to daily fluid intake. While not a primary source of hydration, incorporating broth into meals or consuming it as a warm beverage can help meet fluid requirements, especially during colder months or when recovering from illness. The water content helps support various bodily functions, and the savory taste may encourage consumption for those who find plain water unappealing at times.
COLLEGE INN Turkey Broth scores 39/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its ultra-processed NOVA class 4 designation and high sodium content.
How to eat it
Turkey broth is commonly used as a flavorful liquid base in a variety of savory dishes. It's often incorporated into soups, stews, gravies, and sauces, or used to moisten stuffing and casseroles. A typical serving is 1 cup, but it's frequently used in smaller quantities as an ingredient. The main pitfall is its high sodium content, which can quickly add up in a meal.
Use this broth as a partial liquid replacement in recipes, combining it with water or a lower-sodium broth to reduce overall sodium.
Incorporate it into dishes with fresh vegetables and lean proteins to balance the nutritional profile of your meal.
Consider using it to deglaze pans after cooking meats, capturing flavorful fond without adding significant fat.
When making stuffing or rice, use this broth in moderation to impart flavor, being mindful of the added sodium from the broth and other ingredients.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that some individuals may wish to monitor. The presence of soy sauce means it contains wheat and soybeans, which are common allergens. Additionally, egg yolks and cultured whey (milk) are listed, indicating egg and milk allergens. Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution. The high sodium content (412.08mg per 100g) is a significant factor, especially for those managing blood pressure or fluid retention. While the amount of dextrose (a form of sugar) is low at 0.29g per 100g, it contributes to the product's ultra-processed nature. The inclusion of natural flavors can be a concern for some who prefer to avoid proprietary blends of ingredients.
COLLEGE INN Turkey Broth receives a FoodScore of 39/100, which is considered 'Poor'. It is an ultra-processed food (NOVA class 4) and is high in sodium. While it is low in calories and fat, it offers minimal essential vitamins and minerals. It can be part of a balanced diet when used in moderation, especially considering its sodium content.
How does COLLEGE INN Turkey Broth compare to other broths?
Compared to a homemade turkey broth, COLLEGE INN Turkey Broth is significantly higher in sodium and contains added ingredients like dextrose and yeast extract. Other commercial brands, such as Pacific Foods Organic Free Range Chicken Broth, may offer lower sodium options or organic ingredients, but it's important to check the specific nutrition label for each product to compare.
What is 'natural flavors' in this broth?
Natural flavors are a proprietary blend of ingredients derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or meat. They are added to enhance the taste of the product. While derived from natural sources, the processing involved means they are not whole foods and contribute to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this broth?
The declared serving size is 1 cup (240g), which would provide approximately 989mg of sodium. Given the high sodium content, it's often more appropriate to use smaller portions, such as 1/2 cup or less, when incorporating it into recipes, especially if other ingredients in your meal also contain sodium.
Can I use this broth for sipping when I'm sick?
While warm broth can be comforting when sick, be mindful of the high sodium content in COLLEGE INN Turkey Broth. Consuming large amounts could contribute to exceeding daily sodium recommendations. For sipping, consider diluting it with water or opting for a very low-sodium broth if available, to stay hydrated without excessive sodium intake.