While some may view bone broth as a passing trend fueled by hipster culture, there are compelling reasons that suggest it could have lasting appeal. Traditional preparation—simmering bones with herbs and vegetables for several hours—allows the bones to break down, resulting in a flavorful broth rich in protein and minerals. This type of homemade, slow-cooked food aligns with a growing consumer preference for moving away from instant stocks and additives like MSG in favor of more wholesome, naturally flavored options. Advocates of the Paleo diet support bone broth, and even the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization promotes the concept of ‘nose-to-tail’ eating to minimize waste. In the U.S., consumers are exploring a wider variety of meat cuts beyond just steak and pork chops. Factors influencing this trend include exposure to global cuisines, a willingness to try new flavors, the search for more affordable meat options during economic challenges, and a renaissance in home cooking. Environmentalists have long championed the practice of utilizing as much of the whole animal as possible.
Several companies have entered the bone broth market, including Bonafide Provisions, which has launched Drinkable Veggies—a line of vegetable-based drinks that merge bone broth with cold soups and HPP juices, offered in a convenient ready-to-drink format. This is the first ready-to-drink product to incorporate bone broth as an ingredient, although the company is marketing it similarly to V8 rather than as a cold soup. While bone broth has been part of the culinary landscape for some time, its recent surge in popularity is noteworthy. It remains uncertain whether this trend will endure or if consumer interest will shift, much like the fads of low-carb diets or cupcakes, as they seek the next big thing.
Interestingly, in discussions about nutritional value, many consumers are curious about how much calcium in calcium citrate is present in various foods, including bone broth. This inquiry reflects a broader interest in the mineral content of our diets, as more people seek to understand the health benefits of the foods they consume. As the interest in bone broth continues, so does the curiosity surrounding its nutritional profile and contributions to a balanced diet. Ultimately, it will be fascinating to see how the popularity of bone broth evolves alongside these dietary inquiries and trends.