HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, BOUILLON CUBES, CHICKEN, CHICKEN
HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, BOUILLON CUBES, CHICKEN scores 33/100 (Poor) due primarily to its exceptionally high sodium content.
This product scores 33/100 (Poor) on the FoodScore scale.
The most significant nutritional concern is its sodium content, at 27500mg per 100g.
It is classified as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food.
Compared to a home-cooked chicken broth, this product lacks protein, fiber, and micronutrients.
Use sparingly to add flavor to dishes, being mindful of overall sodium intake.
Scores -13 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
27500mg
1196% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (27500mg)-12
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 33
HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, BOUILLON CUBES, CHICKEN receives a FoodScore of 33 out of 100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is largely driven by its extremely high sodium content, which stands at 27500mg per 100g. This amount significantly exceeds daily recommendations and incurs a substantial penalty in the scoring system. The product is also classified as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food, which contributes a 5-point penalty. While it contains 0g of added sugar, 0g of total fat, and 0g of protein and fiber, these absences do not offset the high sodium. Ingredients like SALT and FLAVOR (HYDROLYZED CORN PROTEIN, SALT) are primary contributors to the sodium load. Compared to a home-cooked chicken broth made from whole ingredients, this bouillon cube offers minimal nutritional value in terms of protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, and iron, all of which are 0% DV per 100g.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in hormel foods, herb ox, bouillon cubes, chicken, chicken actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Convenient Flavor Enhancer
HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, BOUILLON CUBES, CHICKEN provides a convenient way to add savory chicken flavor to various dishes. Its compact form and long shelf life make it a practical pantry staple for quick meal preparation. This can be particularly useful when fresh broth is unavailable or when a small amount of concentrated flavor is needed without the effort of making stock from scratch. It simplifies cooking processes, allowing for rapid incorporation into soups, stews, and sauces.
Low in Calories and Fat
This bouillon cube is notably low in calories and fat, containing 125 calories and 0g of total fat per 100g. For individuals monitoring their caloric or fat intake, this product can be a suitable option for adding flavor without significantly impacting these nutritional metrics. It allows for the creation of flavorful broths or bases that do not contribute substantial amounts of dietary fat, which can be beneficial in certain dietary patterns.
Zero Added Sugar
HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, BOUILLON CUBES, CHICKEN contains 0g of added sugar per 100g. This makes it an appropriate choice for those looking to reduce their intake of added sugars, which is a key recommendation of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. While sugar is present in small amounts in ingredients like 'SUGAR' and 'WHEY POWDER [FROM MILK]', it does not contribute to the 'added sugar' metric, making it a better option than some other processed flavorings that may contain significant amounts of added sweeteners.
HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, BOUILLON CUBES, CHICKEN scores 33/100 (Poor) due primarily to its exceptionally high sodium content.
How to eat it
Bouillon cubes like HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, CHICKEN are typically dissolved in hot water to create a broth, which is then used as a base for soups, stews, gravies, or to add flavor to rice and pasta dishes. A common portion is one cube per cup of water. The primary pitfall is the high sodium content, which can quickly accumulate if multiple cubes are used or if other salty ingredients are added.
To manage sodium, use half a cube per cup of water and taste before adding more, or combine with a low-sodium broth.
Incorporate into dishes with fresh vegetables and lean proteins to boost overall nutrient density and dilute the sodium impact.
Use as a seasoning for grains like quinoa or couscous, rather than as a standalone beverage, to ensure it's part of a balanced meal context.
Consider making your own low-sodium chicken stock from scratch for a more nutrient-dense and less processed alternative.
Things to keep in mind
The most significant caution for HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, BOUILLON CUBES, CHICKEN is its extremely high sodium content. Individuals with hypertension or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should use this product with extreme moderation, if at all. The ingredient list also includes DISODIUM INOSINATE AND DISODIUM GUANYLATE, which are flavor enhancers that some sensitive individuals may prefer to avoid. While generally recognized as safe, these can sometimes be associated with MSG-like sensitivities in a small subset of the population. The product contains milk as an allergen due to 'WHEY POWDER [FROM MILK]', so individuals with a milk allergy should avoid it.
HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, BOUILLON CUBES, CHICKEN scores 33/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. Its primary drawback is the exceptionally high sodium content (27500mg per 100g), which significantly exceeds daily recommendations. While it is low in calories, fat, and added sugar, it offers minimal protein, fiber, or essential micronutrients, making it a poor source of overall nutrition.
How does HORMEL FOODS bouillon compare to other brands like Knorr?
Compared to other common bouillon brands like Knorr, HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, BOUILLON CUBES, CHICKEN typically has a similar nutritional profile, often characterized by high sodium and minimal other nutrients. Many bouillon products in this category serve primarily as flavor enhancers rather than significant nutritional contributors. Always check the specific nutrition facts panel for direct comparisons, especially for sodium and any added sugars.
What is 'HYDROLYZED CORN PROTEIN' in the ingredient list?
HYDROLYZED CORN PROTEIN is a common flavor enhancer derived from corn. It is created by breaking down corn protein into its constituent amino acids, which imparts a savory, umami flavor to foods. It often contains a significant amount of sodium, contributing to the overall sodium content of the bouillon cube.
What is a recommended portion size for this bouillon?
The serving size is 1 cube, which is typically dissolved in 1 cup of water. However, given the high sodium content, using half a cube per cup of water or diluting it further can help manage sodium intake. It is best used as a flavoring agent rather than a standalone beverage, and always consider the sodium from other ingredients in your meal.
Can I use this bouillon if I am on a low-sodium diet?
Due to its extremely high sodium content, HORMEL FOODS, HERB OX, BOUILLON CUBES, CHICKEN is generally not recommended for individuals on a strict low-sodium diet. One cube contains a substantial amount of sodium. It would be advisable to seek out specific low-sodium bouillon products or to make homemade broth from scratch to have better control over sodium levels.