SWANSON 100% NATURAL BROTH CHICKEN scores 44/100 (Poor) primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as a processed food. This product offers minimal macronutrients and micronutrients.
This SWANSON broth has a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor).
It contains 357.92mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to a penalty.
The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), incurring a 5-point penalty.
Compared to homemade broth, this SKU lacks significant protein and micronutrients.
Use this broth as a flavor base rather than a primary nutrient source.
Scores -2 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
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
357.92mg
16% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Sodium (357.9mg)-1
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 44
SWANSON 100% NATURAL BROTH CHICKEN receives a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor contributing to this score is its high sodium content, at 357.92mg per 100g, which incurs a significant penalty according to dietary guidelines. While the product is low in calories (4 per 100g) and contains no added sugar or saturated fat, it also provides negligible amounts of beneficial macronutrients like protein (0.42g per 100g) and fiber (0g). Furthermore, the ingredient list includes dehydrated chicken broth and natural flavoring, which are common in processed foods. This SWANSON product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), resulting in a 5-point penalty. In comparison to a home-cooked chicken broth made with whole ingredients, this branded version offers far fewer naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, and a higher sodium level for a similar volume.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in swanson 100% natural broth chicken, chicken actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Low Calorie Base for Cooking
This SWANSON chicken broth is exceptionally low in calories, with only 4 calories per 100g. This makes it a suitable option for adding flavor to dishes without significantly increasing the caloric load. It can be used as a base for soups, stews, or to deglaze pans, helping to create satisfying meals that align with calorie management goals. Its minimal energy contribution allows for greater flexibility in adding other nutrient-dense ingredients to your recipes.
Versatile Culinary Ingredient
SWANSON 100% NATURAL BROTH CHICKEN serves as a highly versatile ingredient in various culinary applications. Its liquid form and savory profile make it ideal for moistening dishes, simmering grains, or creating sauces. The 'natural flavoring' and 'dehydrated onions' contribute to a consistent taste, which can be a convenient shortcut for home cooks looking to enhance the depth of flavor in their meals without extensive preparation time. This product is designed to integrate easily into many recipes.
Zero Added Sugar and Saturated Fat
This product contains no added sugar and zero grams of saturated fat per 100g. This aligns with dietary recommendations to limit intake of these components. For individuals monitoring their intake of added sugars and unhealthy fats, this broth provides a clean base. Its formulation focuses on savory notes without relying on these less desirable ingredients, making it a suitable choice for those adhering to specific dietary patterns or health goals.
SWANSON 100% NATURAL BROTH CHICKEN scores 44/100 (Poor) primarily due to its high sodium content and classification as a processed food. This product offers minimal macronutrients and micronutrients.
How to eat it
SWANSON 100% NATURAL BROTH CHICKEN is typically used as a flavorful liquid base in cooking. It's commonly incorporated into soups, stews, sauces, and gravies, or used to cook grains like rice and quinoa. A common portion is 1 cup, which can significantly contribute to the sodium intake of a meal.
To reduce overall sodium, consider diluting this broth with an equal part of water when using it in recipes, especially for dishes where other salty ingredients are present.
Enhance the nutritional value by using this broth as a base for soups packed with lean protein and a variety of vegetables.
Use it to cook whole grains like brown rice or farro, which can absorb the savory flavor and make the grains more palatable.
For a quick, warm beverage, heat a cup of broth and add a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh herbs for a low-calorie, savory drink.
Always check the sodium content of other ingredients in your recipe to manage the total sodium intake when using this broth.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for SWANSON 100% NATURAL BROTH CHICKEN is its high sodium content. At 357.92mg per 100g, regular consumption, especially in larger portions or multiple servings, can contribute significantly to daily sodium intake, which may be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. The ingredient list includes natural flavoring, which is a broad term and may contain various components, though it is generally recognized as safe. There are no common allergens explicitly declared in the ingredient list, but individuals with specific sensitivities should always review the full label carefully. This product is generally safe for most populations when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
SWANSON 100% NATURAL BROTH CHICKEN scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it is low in calories and free of added sugar, its high sodium content is a significant nutritional drawback. It provides minimal protein or micronutrients, meaning it's not a primary source of nutrition but rather a flavor enhancer.
How does SWANSON broth compare to other chicken broths?
Compared to a homemade chicken broth, SWANSON broth typically has a higher sodium level and fewer naturally occurring vitamins and minerals. When compared to other branded broths like Pacific Foods Organic Free Range Chicken Broth, sodium levels can vary, so it's important to check the nutrition facts panel for each specific product to make an informed choice.
What does 'natural flavoring' mean in the ingredient list?
'Natural flavoring' refers to a substance derived from a natural source (like a spice, fruit, vegetable, or meat) whose primary function is to add flavor rather than nutritional value. While derived from natural sources, the processing involved means it's not a whole food. It contributes to the overall taste profile of the broth.
What is a typical serving size for this broth?
A typical serving size for SWANSON 100% NATURAL BROTH CHICKEN is 1 cup. This serving provides 357.92mg of sodium, which is a notable portion of the daily recommended limit. It's important to consider this when incorporating the broth into meals, especially if you are monitoring your sodium intake.
Can I use this broth for a low-sodium diet?
Due to its high sodium content (357.92mg per 100g), SWANSON 100% NATURAL BROTH CHICKEN is generally not recommended for individuals strictly following a low-sodium diet. Look for 'low sodium' or 'unsalted' broth options, which are specifically formulated to contain significantly less sodium, or consider making your own broth to control the salt content.