SWANSON 100% NATURAL CHICKEN BROTH scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its classification as a processed food and its sodium content.
This SWANSON broth received a FoodScore of 44/100, classifying it as Poor.
It contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of fiber per 100g serving.
A significant concern is the 357.92mg of sodium per 100g, contributing to a penalty.
As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it differs from a home-cooked broth made with whole ingredients.
This broth can be a convenient base for recipes but consider its sodium contribution.
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 CHICKEN BROTH receives a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is primarily driven by two factors. First, the product is classified as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food. This classification incurs a significant penalty of 5 points, reflecting that it has undergone various processing steps and contains ingredients like "natural flavoring" and "yeast extract" that are not typically found in a simple home-cooked broth. Second, the sodium content is a notable concern, with 357.92mg per 100g. This amount contributes to a 1-point penalty, as high sodium intake is discouraged by dietary guidelines. While the product is low in calories (4 per 100g) and contains no added sugar or saturated fat, it also provides minimal beneficial nutrients, with 0% DV for most vitamins and minerals listed. Compared to a home-cooked version using whole ingredients, SWANSON broth lacks the naturally occurring micronutrients and often has a higher sodium level, making the home-cooked alternative generally more favorable from a nutritional standpoint.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in swanson 100% natural chicken broth actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Low Calorie Base for Meals
SWANSON 100% NATURAL CHICKEN BROTH is a very low-calorie liquid base, providing only 4 calories per 100g. This makes it a suitable option for adding flavor and moisture to dishes without significantly increasing the caloric load of a meal. It can be particularly useful for individuals managing their calorie intake or those looking to create light soups, stews, or sauces. Using broth instead of higher-calorie liquids like cream or oil can help maintain a lower overall energy density in recipes.
Zero Added Sugars
This SWANSON chicken broth contains 0g of added sugar per 100g. This aligns with dietary recommendations to limit intake of added sugars, which can contribute to excess calorie consumption without providing significant nutritional value. For consumers mindful of their sugar intake, this product offers a savory base that does not contribute to daily added sugar totals, making it a suitable ingredient for various savory preparations without concern for hidden sugars.
Versatile Culinary Ingredient
While not a significant source of macronutrients or micronutrients, this broth serves as a highly versatile culinary ingredient. Its liquid form and savory profile make it ideal for deglazing pans, simmering vegetables, cooking grains like rice or quinoa, and creating flavorful sauces. The inclusion of "dehydrated onions" and "natural flavoring" contributes to its taste, allowing it to enhance the flavor of dishes without requiring extensive seasoning, which can be a convenient option for home cooks.
SWANSON 100% NATURAL CHICKEN BROTH scores 44/100 (Poor) due to its classification as a processed food and its sodium content.
How to eat it
SWANSON 100% NATURAL CHICKEN BROTH is commonly used as a flavorful liquid base in a variety of savory dishes. It's typically consumed as part of a larger meal, such as in soups, stews, or when cooking grains. A common portion is 1 cup (240g) when used as a standalone beverage or as a significant component of a recipe.
To reduce the overall sodium of a dish, consider diluting this broth with water or using a lower-sodium broth alternative.
Enhance the nutritional value of dishes made with this broth by adding plenty of fresh or frozen vegetables and lean protein sources.
Use this broth as a base for cooking whole grains like brown rice or quinoa to infuse them with flavor, rather than just using water.
When making soup, combine this broth with a homemade vegetable stock to balance flavor and sodium content.
Things to keep in mind
The primary caution for SWANSON 100% NATURAL CHICKEN BROTH is its sodium content. At 357.92mg per 100g, a single serving (1 cup) contributes a notable amount to daily sodium intake. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should be particularly mindful of this. While the ingredient list includes "natural flavoring," which is generally recognized as safe, some individuals may have sensitivities to specific components within these broad categories. The product does not contain common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, or nuts, making it a suitable option for those with these specific allergies.
SWANSON 100% NATURAL CHICKEN BROTH scores 44/100, classifying it as Poor. While it is low in calories and contains no added sugar, its sodium content is relatively high and it provides minimal essential micronutrients. It is best viewed as a culinary ingredient rather than a nutrient-dense food on its own.
How does SWANSON compare to other chicken broths?
Compared to a generic home-cooked chicken broth made from whole ingredients, SWANSON 100% NATURAL CHICKEN BROTH is more processed (NOVA class 3) and typically has a higher sodium level. Brands like Kitchen Basics also offer chicken broths, and their nutritional profiles, particularly sodium, can vary, so checking the nutrition label is always recommended for comparison.
What does "natural flavoring" mean in the ingredient list?
"Natural flavoring" refers to flavorings derived from natural sources like spices, fruits, vegetables, or meat, whose primary function is flavor, not nutrition. While it contributes to the product's taste, it's a broad term that doesn't specify the exact components, and it's a common ingredient in processed foods like this broth.
What is a typical serving size for this broth?
The declared serving size for SWANSON 100% NATURAL CHICKEN BROTH is 1 cup (240g). When used as a base for soups or stews, a single recipe might contain multiple servings. Be mindful of the sodium contribution per serving, especially if consuming more than one cup.
Can I use this broth for sipping when I'm sick?
Yes, you can use SWANSON 100% NATURAL CHICKEN BROTH for sipping when sick, as it can provide hydration and warmth. However, be aware of the sodium content, which might be a concern for some individuals. For a lower sodium option, consider diluting it with water or choosing a specifically low-sodium broth.