How to Tell If Bone Broth Is Organic (and Why It Matters)
- Niharika Prinsloo
- Feb 4
- 5 min read
Bone broth has become a staple in many kitchens, known for its comforting flavor and health benefits.
But as more people prioritize high-quality ingredients, a new question arises:
Can bone broth be organic? And if so, what does that mean for you as a consumer?
In this article, we’ll break down what it takes for bone broth to be certified organic, why it matters, and how to choose the best organic bone broth for your needs.
We’ll keep it simple and straightforward—just like a good bowl of broth.
I’ll Cover:
What Organic Certification Means
For bone broth to be certified organic, the ingredients used must meet strict USDA organic standards. This includes:
Organic Bones and Meats
The bones must come from animals raised without synthetic hormones or antibiotics.
The feed they consume also needs to be 100% organic, free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs), synthetic fertilizers, and pesticides.
Organic Vegetables and Herbs
If the broth contains added vegetables, herbs, or seasonings, these ingredients must also be certified organic.
Clean Processing Standards
The manufacturing process must comply with organic regulations.
This means no artificial additives, preservatives, or processing aids that aren’t approved under organic standards.
By meeting these criteria, a bone broth can earn the USDA organic seal, giving you peace of mind that it’s made with clean, high-quality ingredients.
Key Differences Between Organic and Conventional Bone Broth
When deciding between organic and conventional bone broth, understanding the key differences can help you make an informed choice.
Source of Ingredients:
Organic Bone Broth
Sourced from animals that are pasture-raised, fed organic diets, and never treated with synthetic hormones or antibiotics.
Conventional Bone Broth
May come from animals raised in feedlots, fed non-organic grains, or treated with antibiotics and growth hormones.
Farming and Feeding Practices:
Organic
Ensures no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers are used on feed crops, and no GMOs are involved.
Conventional
Allows the use of GMOs, synthetic fertilizers, and certain pesticides.
Additives and Preservatives:
Organic
Must adhere to clean-label standards, meaning no artificial additives, synthetic preservatives, or unapproved processing aids.
Conventional
Can include artificial flavorings, colors, or preservatives that may not align with organic principles.
Environmental Impact:
Organic
Promotes more sustainable farming practices, which can be better for the soil, water, and ecosystem.
Conventional
May involve farming methods that rely more heavily on chemical inputs and industrial-scale practices.
In short, organic bone broth offers cleaner ingredients, stricter animal welfare standards, and a more environmentally friendly approach.
How to Identify High-Quality Organic Bone Broth
To find the best options, keep an eye out for these qualities:
USDA Organic Seal
Look for the official USDA organic certification. This seal ensures the product meets strict organic standards and hasn’t been greenwashed.
Transparent Ingredient Lists
High-quality organic bone broths will clearly list all ingredients. You should recognize each one, from organic chicken bones to organic carrots and celery.
Minimal Ingredients
A good organic bone broth is often made with just a handful of ingredients—bones, water, a few organic vegetables, and perhaps a splash of organic apple cider vinegar.
Gelatinous Texture When Cold
Bone broth rich in collagen will gel when refrigerated. This is a sign that the broth contains the beneficial nutrients and proteins that come from properly simmered bones.
No Added Sugars or Artificial Flavors
Quality organic bone broths rely on the natural flavors of the ingredients. If you see added sugars, artificial flavorings, or unrecognizable chemicals, it’s a red flag.
Why Choosing Organic Can Make a Difference
Going organic isn’t just about following a trend—it’s about making choices that benefit your health, the environment, and animal welfare.
Improved Health Benefits
Organic bone broth comes from cleaner ingredients, meaning you’re not ingesting residues from synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, or growth hormones.
This can be especially important for people who are mindful of what they put into their bodies.
Learn more about 10 surprising health benefits of bone broth.
Supporting Sustainable Practices
By choosing organic, you’re supporting farming methods that prioritize soil health, biodiversity, and ecological balance.
These practices help reduce pollution, conserve water, and improve the overall health of agricultural ecosystems.
Animal Welfare
Organic certification ensures that animals are raised in better conditions, with access to the outdoors, organic feed, and without the routine use of antibiotics or hormones.
For many consumers, this aspect aligns with their values and ethical considerations.
Encouraging Better Industry Standards
When more people opt for organic products, it signals to producers that clean, sustainable practices are in demand.
Over time, this can lead to wider adoption of organic methods and better food standards across the industry.
In essence, choosing organic bone broth is a step toward healthier living, a healthier planet, and a more ethical food system.
Frequently Asked Questions About Organic Bone Broth
Can bone broth be labeled organic if only some ingredients are organic?
No. For a bone broth to carry the USDA organic seal, all key ingredients must meet the organic standards.
Is organic bone broth more expensive?
Generally, yes. Organic products often cost more because of the stricter farming and production standards.
However, many consumers feel that the added cost is worth it for the improved quality, taste, and ethical considerations.
How can I tell if an organic bone broth is truly organic?
Look for the USDA organic seal and read the ingredient list.
The packaging should clearly state that the product is certified organic, and the ingredients should reflect that status.
Does organic bone broth taste different from conventional bone broth?
Some people find that organic bone broth has a cleaner, more natural flavor.
Without artificial additives, the taste relies solely on the quality of the ingredients—organic bones, vegetables, and herbs.
Can I make organic bone broth at home?
Absolutely! By sourcing organic bones and vegetables, you can create a homemade organic bone broth that’s tailored to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Conclusion
Can bone broth be organic? Yes, it can—and choosing organic makes a meaningful difference.
From cleaner ingredients and improved animal welfare to better taste and health benefits, organic bone broth stands out as a top choice for those seeking a higher standard of quality.
By understanding what organic certification entails and how to identify the best organic bone broths, you can make more informed decisions for yourself and your family.
Whether you buy from a trusted brand or make it at home, choosing organic bone broth is a delicious, nutritious way to nourish your body and support sustainable food practices.
Ready to enjoy high-quality organic bone broth? Visit Broth today!
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