FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentpreparedHEALTH VALLEY· 1 cup

HEALTH VALLEY BROTH, CHICKEN, 40% LESS SODIM

HEALTH VALLEY BROTH, CHICKEN, 40% LESS SODIUM scores 45/100 (Decent). Its moderate sodium content for a broth and lack of beneficial micronutrients are the primary drivers of its score.

  • This HEALTH VALLEY broth scores 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
  • It contains 0g of total fat, saturated fat, and added sugar per 100g serving.
  • With 162.08mg of sodium per 100g, it is a lower-sodium option compared to many broths.
  • As a NOVA 3 processed food, it is less ideal than a home-cooked broth from whole ingredients.
  • This broth can be a convenient base for soups or stews, contributing minimal calories.
  • Scores -1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
2.5g
5% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
162.08mg
7% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table

Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.

What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 45

HEALTH VALLEY BROTH, CHICKEN, 40% LESS SODIUM receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, categorizing it as 'Decent'. This score reflects its nutritional profile, which is characterized by a low calorie count and the absence of fat and added sugars. Per 100g, it provides only 10 calories, 0g of total fat, and 0g of added sugar, which are positive attributes. However, the product's score is primarily impacted by its limited micronutrient contribution, with 0% DV for potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and various vitamins. While marketed as '40% LESS SODIUM', it still contains 162.08mg of sodium per 100g, which, while lower than many broths, still contributes to daily intake. The presence of sea salt as an ingredient is a key factor in its sodium content. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it incurs a penalty, indicating it has undergone significant processing compared to a home-cooked broth made from whole ingredients. This processing and the lack of naturally occurring beneficial nutrients prevent a higher score.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in health valley broth, chicken, 40% less sodim actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Hydration with Minimal Calories

This HEALTH VALLEY broth provides a low-calorie liquid base that can contribute to daily fluid intake. With only 10 calories per 100g, it offers a way to stay hydrated without adding significant energy to your diet. It can be particularly useful for individuals managing calorie intake or those seeking a flavorful, light beverage. The filtered water base ensures a clean and simple hydration source.

Lower Sodium Option for Broth

Compared to many standard chicken broths, this HEALTH VALLEY product is formulated with 40% less sodium, containing 162.08mg per 100g. This makes it a more suitable choice for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or those advised to follow a lower-sodium diet. Using this broth can help reduce the overall sodium content of meals while still providing a savory flavor base, especially when compared to broths where sea salt is present in higher amounts.

Free from Added Sugars and Fats

This broth is a beneficial option for those looking to avoid added sugars and fats in their diet. It contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of total fat per 100g serving. This formulation aligns with dietary recommendations to limit intake of added sugars and saturated/trans fats. It provides a clean base for cooking without contributing unwanted macronutrients, allowing for greater control over the nutritional profile of the final dish.

How to eat it

Chicken broth is commonly used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces, or as a flavorful liquid for cooking grains and vegetables. It's often consumed as a warm beverage, particularly when feeling unwell. A typical serving is one cup, and it can be easily incorporated into various meal preparations.

Use this broth as a flavorful liquid base for cooking rice, quinoa, or couscous instead of plain water to add depth without extra calories.
Enhance the nutritional value of your meals by using this broth in homemade soups and adding plenty of vegetables and lean protein.
If consuming as a beverage, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for additional flavor and antioxidants.
When making sauces, use this broth as a low-calorie, low-fat alternative to cream or butter-based liquids.
Things to keep in mind

This HEALTH VALLEY broth is generally safe for consumption by most individuals. It does not contain common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or eggs. The ingredient list is relatively short and free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Individuals sensitive to specific spices like onion powder, turmeric, ground celery seeds, or white pepper should review the ingredient list carefully. While it is a lower-sodium option, those on extremely strict sodium-restricted diets should still account for the 162.08mg per 100g serving.

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Reader questions
Is HEALTH VALLEY chicken broth healthy?
HEALTH VALLEY BROTH, CHICKEN, 40% LESS SODIUM scores 45/100, which is considered 'Decent'. It is a low-calorie, fat-free, and sugar-free option with reduced sodium compared to many broths. However, it provides minimal micronutrients and is a processed food (NOVA 3), meaning it's not as nutritionally dense as a homemade broth.
How does HEALTH VALLEY broth compare to Pacific Foods Organic Chicken Broth?
Compared to many standard broths like Pacific Foods Organic Chicken Broth, HEALTH VALLEY BROTH, CHICKEN, 40% LESS SODIUM offers a lower sodium content per serving. Both are generally low in calories and fat. The choice between them often comes down to specific ingredient preferences, such as organic certification, and individual sodium intake goals.
What is 'concentrated chicken broth' in the ingredients?
Concentrated chicken broth means that the broth has had a significant amount of its water removed, making it more potent in flavor and nutrients by volume. When you add water back, it reconstitutes to a standard broth. This process allows for easier storage and transportation of the product.
Can I drink this broth daily?
Yes, you can drink this broth daily. Given its low calorie and fat content, and reduced sodium, it can be a part of a balanced daily fluid intake. However, it's important to ensure your overall diet provides a wide range of micronutrients, as this broth contributes minimally in that area.
Does this broth contain any artificial ingredients?
No, the ingredient list for HEALTH VALLEY BROTH, CHICKEN, 40% LESS SODIUM does not include any artificial ingredients. It uses filtered water, concentrated chicken broth, sea salt, and natural spices like onion powder, turmeric, ground celery seeds, and white pepper. This makes it a relatively clean-label option.

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Data & references