HEALTH VALLEY, NO SALT ADDED CHICKEN BROTH, CHICKEN
HEALTH VALLEY NO SALT ADDED CHICKEN BROTH scores 45/100, primarily due to its classification as a processed food and minimal nutrient contribution beyond protein.
FoodScore: 45/100 (Decent) for HEALTH VALLEY NO SALT ADDED CHICKEN BROTH.
Contains 2.08g protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating a degree of industrial processing.
Offers 54.17mg sodium per 100g, significantly less than many prepared broths.
Can be a convenient base for soups and other savory dishes.
Scores -1 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
2.08g
4% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
54.17mg
2% 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 NO SALT ADDED CHICKEN BROTH receives a FoodScore of 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects its nutritional profile and processing level. The product provides 2.08g of protein per 100g, which is a positive contribution, but it contains no fiber and negligible amounts of essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, or iron. A key factor in its score is its NOVA classification as 3, indicating it is a processed food, which incurs a penalty in the scoring system. While the product is marketed as 'no salt added,' it still contains 54.17mg of sodium per 100g, which is a relatively low amount compared to many other prepared broths. The ingredient list includes concentrated chicken broth and chicken fat, alongside seasonings like onion powder and turmeric. Compared to a home-cooked chicken broth made with whole ingredients, this product offers less nutritional complexity and fewer naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, primarily serving as a flavorful liquid base.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in health valley, no salt added chicken broth, chicken actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Hydration and Flavor
This HEALTH VALLEY chicken broth can be a flavorful way to increase fluid intake, especially for individuals who find plain water unappealing. With its savory profile derived from ingredients like concentrated chicken broth and onion powder, it can make a comforting warm beverage or a base for other liquids. Adequate hydration is crucial for many bodily functions, and incorporating broths can be a useful strategy, particularly during illness or recovery when appetite may be low.
Low in Sodium
As a 'no salt added' product, this HEALTH VALLEY chicken broth is significantly lower in sodium compared to many standard prepared broths, containing only 54.17mg per 100g. This makes it a suitable option for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or kidney concerns. Choosing lower-sodium options allows for better control over the overall sodium content of meals, as consumers can add salt to taste if desired, rather than starting with a high-sodium base.
Source of Protein
With 2.08g of protein per 100g, this chicken broth contributes to your daily protein intake. While not a primary protein source, this amount can add to the overall protein content of a meal when used as a base for soups, stews, or grain dishes. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and satiety, making even small contributions from ingredients like broth beneficial for a balanced diet.
HEALTH VALLEY NO SALT ADDED CHICKEN BROTH scores 45/100, primarily due to its classification as a processed food and minimal nutrient contribution beyond protein.
How to eat it
Chicken broth is commonly used as a versatile liquid base in many culinary applications. It can enhance the flavor of soups, stews, sauces, and gravies, or be used to cook grains like rice and quinoa. A typical serving size is 1 cup, often consumed as part of a larger dish.
Use this broth as a flavorful liquid for cooking grains like rice, quinoa, or couscous instead of plain water to add depth and savory notes.
Incorporate into homemade soups and stews as a base, adding plenty of vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains to create a more nutritionally complete meal.
Warm a cup of broth and sip it as a light, savory beverage, especially during colder months or when feeling unwell, for comfort and hydration.
Freeze leftover broth in ice cube trays for convenient small portions to deglaze pans or add to stir-fries and sauces.
Things to keep in mind
This product is generally safe for consumption for most individuals. The ingredient list is relatively short and does not contain common allergens like milk, soy, or wheat. It also lacks artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives that can sometimes be a concern for sensitive individuals. The presence of chicken fat contributes to its total fat content, but the amount is low at 0.62g per 100g. Individuals with specific sensitivities to ingredients like onion powder or white pepper might consider this, but generally, these are well-tolerated. Overall, there are no significant cautions or specific populations that need to be particularly careful with this HEALTH VALLEY chicken broth beyond general dietary considerations.
Is HEALTH VALLEY NO SALT ADDED CHICKEN BROTH healthy?
HEALTH VALLEY NO SALT ADDED CHICKEN BROTH scores 45/100, indicating it's a decent choice. It is low in sodium and provides some protein, making it a better option than many higher-sodium broths. However, it is a processed food and offers minimal micronutrients, so it's best used as part of a balanced diet rich in whole foods.
How does HEALTH VALLEY NO SALT ADDED CHICKEN BROTH compare to other brands?
Compared to standard chicken broths like Swanson or Pacific Foods, HEALTH VALLEY's 'no salt added' version stands out for its significantly lower sodium content (54.17mg per 100g). Many other brands can contain upwards of 300-400mg of sodium per 100g. While the protein content is comparable, its primary advantage is the reduced sodium, offering more control over your meal's overall saltiness.
What does 'concentrated chicken broth' mean in the ingredients?
Concentrated chicken broth means that water has been removed from the broth, making it more potent in flavor and nutrients before being rehydrated. This is a common processing step to reduce volume for packaging and transportation. When you use the product, you are essentially re-diluting this concentrate with filtered water.
Can I drink this broth plain, or is it only for cooking?
Yes, you can certainly drink HEALTH VALLEY NO SALT ADDED CHICKEN BROTH plain. Many people enjoy warm broth as a comforting beverage, especially when feeling unwell or as a light, savory snack. Its low sodium content makes it a suitable option for sipping without contributing excessive salt to your diet.
How much chicken broth can I consume daily?
There isn't a strict limit on daily broth consumption, especially for a low-sodium product like this one. You can use it freely in cooking or drink a few cups plain. Focus on ensuring your overall diet remains balanced and diverse, incorporating plenty of whole foods alongside the broth.