While some may view bone broth as a trendy hipster phenomenon, there are compelling reasons for its potential longevity. Traditionally prepared by simmering bones with herbs and vegetables for several hours, this process allows the bones to break down, yielding a flavorful broth rich in protein and minerals. This home-cooked, slow food approach aligns with a growing consumer trend, as many seek to move away from instant stocks and additives like MSG in favor of more wholesome, naturally flavored options. Bone broth enjoys support from Paleo diet advocates, and even the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization promotes the concept of “nose-to-tail” eating to minimize waste. American consumers are increasingly exploring a wider variety of meat cuts beyond just steak for beef and chops for pork. Factors contributing to this shift include increased exposure to global cuisines, adventurous palates, interest in budget-friendly meat cuts during economic downturns, and a recent resurgence in home cooking. Environmental advocates have long championed the practice of utilizing as much of the animal as possible.
Several companies have embraced the broth trend. Bonafide Provisions has launched Drinkable Veggies, a line of vegetable-based beverages that blends bone broth with cold soups and HPP juices in a convenient ready-to-drink format. This product is the first of its kind to incorporate bone broth as an ingredient, but the company markets it more like V8 than a cold soup. Although bone broth is not a new concept in the culinary world, its current surge in popularity is noteworthy. It remains uncertain whether this trend will endure or if interest will wane, similar to the fate of low-carb diets or cupcakes, as consumers shift their focus to the next big trend. Additionally, discussions on platforms like Reddit about the benefits of calcium citrate often highlight the nutritional advantages of including bone broth in one’s diet, reinforcing its appeal as a healthful option. As bone broth continues to gain traction, it will be interesting to see how it interacts with evolving consumer preferences, particularly in relation to discussions on nutrition found on forums like Reddit.