FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorpreparedSWANSON· 8.5 ONZ

SWANSON, CHICKEN BROTH

SWANSON Chicken Broth scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as a processed food.

  • SWANSON Chicken Broth receives a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor).
  • A single serving contains 357.92mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
  • This product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating a departure from whole ingredients.
  • It provides minimal protein (0.42g/100g) and no fiber or beneficial micronutrients.
  • Use this broth as a flavor base for dishes, but be mindful of the added sodium.
  • 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 Chicken Broth receives a FoodScore of 44/100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its nutritional profile, particularly its sodium content and processing level. Per 100g, this broth contains 357.92mg of sodium, which is a significant amount and contributes to a penalty in the FoodScore calculation. The product is also classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food, which incurs an additional penalty. While it is very low in calories (4 per 100g) and contains no added sugar, saturated fat, or trans fat, it also offers negligible amounts of protein (0.42g per 100g) and no fiber. Furthermore, the micronutrient profile shows 0% DV for potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, Vitamin D, B12, Folate, Vitamin C, and Vitamin A. The inclusion of natural flavoring and yeast extract contributes to its processed nature. Compared to a home-cooked chicken broth made from whole ingredients, SWANSON Chicken Broth lacks the naturally occurring vitamins and minerals found in a less processed alternative.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in swanson, chicken broth actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Hydration Support

While not a primary source of nutrients, SWANSON Chicken Broth can contribute to daily fluid intake. Its liquid form makes it an easy way to consume water, especially for individuals who may struggle to drink plain water throughout the day. The presence of electrolytes like sodium, though high, can also aid in rehydration, particularly after light physical activity or during mild illness. This can be a useful option when seeking a warm, savory beverage.

Low Calorie Base for Cooking

With only 4 calories per 100g, this SWANSON product serves as an extremely low-calorie base for a variety of dishes. It can be used to add flavor and moisture to meals without significantly increasing the caloric density. This makes it a suitable ingredient for individuals managing their calorie intake, allowing them to enhance the taste of soups, stews, and sauces without adding extra fats or sugars. It provides a savory foundation for healthier meal preparation.

Flavor Enhancement in Meals

SWANSON Chicken Broth is primarily used for its ability to enhance the savory flavor of food. Ingredients like dehydrated onions and natural flavoring contribute to a rich, umami profile that can elevate the taste of homemade dishes. Using broth can reduce the need for excessive salt or other high-calorie flavorings in recipes, helping to create more palatable and satisfying meals. It is a convenient way to infuse depth into cooking.

How to eat it

SWANSON Chicken Broth is commonly used as a flavorful liquid base in cooking. It's typically added to soups, stews, gravies, and sauces, or used to cook grains like rice and quinoa. A common portion is 1 cup (240ml) when consumed as a beverage or as part of a recipe.

To manage sodium intake, consider diluting this broth with an equal part of water when using it in recipes.
Use SWANSON Chicken Broth to cook whole grains like brown rice or farro for added savory flavor without significant calories.
Pair this broth with a variety of fresh vegetables and lean proteins to create a more nutritionally complete meal.
When making homemade soup, use this broth as a base and add fresh herbs and spices to further enhance flavor without extra sodium.
Things to keep in mind

The primary caution with SWANSON Chicken Broth is its high sodium content. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure or kidney conditions, should be mindful of serving sizes and consider lower-sodium alternatives. While the ingredient list includes natural flavoring, the specific components of these flavorings are not disclosed, which is common for such ingredients. There are no declared common allergens like milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg in this product. It is generally considered safe for most populations when consumed in moderation, but the sodium level warrants attention for specific health needs.

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Reader questions
Is SWANSON Chicken Broth healthy?
SWANSON Chicken Broth scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it is very low in calories and contains no added sugar or saturated fat, its high sodium content and classification as a processed food are significant factors. It offers minimal protein and no beneficial micronutrients, so it is not a primary source of nutrition.
How does SWANSON Chicken Broth compare to other brands?
Compared to other chicken broths like Pacific Foods Organic Free Range Chicken Broth, SWANSON's sodium content is often higher per serving. Many organic or 'low sodium' versions from brands like Kitchen Basics may offer a similar flavor profile with a reduced sodium level, which can be a better choice for those managing their intake.
What is 'natural flavoring' in this broth?
The term 'natural flavoring' on an ingredient list indicates that the flavor components are derived from natural sources, such as spices, fruits, vegetables, or meat. However, the specific ingredients used to create the flavor are not required to be disclosed. In SWANSON Chicken Broth, it contributes to the overall savory taste profile.
How much SWANSON Chicken Broth can I consume daily?
Due to its high sodium content (357.92mg per 100g), daily consumption should be mindful of your overall sodium intake from all food sources. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting sodium to less than 2,300mg per day for most adults. Using it as an occasional base for cooking is generally fine, but consuming multiple servings as a beverage could lead to excessive sodium intake.
Can I use this broth for a low-carb diet?
Yes, SWANSON Chicken Broth is suitable for a low-carb diet. It contains 0g of carbohydrates per 100g, making it an excellent choice for adding flavor to meals without contributing to carbohydrate intake. Its minimal caloric content also aligns well with many dietary approaches focused on calorie control.

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Data & references