How to Choose Between Chicken and Beef Bone Broth. (2024)

When it comes to choosing between chicken and beef bone broth, you may be wondering a few things, like:

  • Is there a difference between chicken and beef bone broth?
  • Do the health benefits vary?
  • Which one is right for me?

Today we’re answering all of your questions, so you can make the best decision for yourself.

First, let’s state the obvious: they do come from two different animals! But, the cooking process is the same for both, with our pasture-raised chicken bones and grass-fed beef bones left to simmer for 18+ hours, then infused with our fresh, organic herbs. This method of a low and slow simmer draws out the most nutrients, resulting in a truly nourishing final product.

In short, yes and no! While both chicken and beef bones provide a healthy amount of collagen, the types and amount of collagen varies. And with those different types of collagen come different benefits. Chicken and beef broth also have different concentrations of some other nutrients as well.

Chicken Bone Broth

Consider chicken your choice to heal and seal the gut, though both chicken and beef contain amino acids and nutrients that support gut health. As far as collagen content is concerned, chicken bones do offer less than beef, but they also offer a different type. Chicken bones are predominantly type II collagen, which is great for joints/cartilage. It’s also key for the immune system and digestive support, especially for healing and sealing the gut lining.

When you use chicken feet in your broth (like we do here at FOND!) you end up with bone broth that’s slightly higher in protein than beef. Using the feet lends more collagen, too! Though beef still has more collagen overall, thanks to its denser, heavier bones.

Chicken bone broth is also a little easier to digest than beef, though bone broth as a whole is easy to digest due to the low and slow simmering process.

Beef Bone Broth

Beef bones are more dense than chicken bones, which yields a higher concentration of minerals and collagen compared to chicken. The high concentration of minerals may help boost energy levels and provide extra nourishment.

Consider beef your natural botox, Since it’s filled with type III collagen that’s great for skin health. Type III collagen is found in connective tissues like skin, lungs, uterus, intestines, and the vascular system. It gives skin its firmness/resilience and also forms your blood vessels and cardiovascular tissues. Beef also contains type I collagen, which is the most abundant type of collagen in the body.

Beef also has a more balanced omega-3: omega-6 ratio when compared to chicken. While we need both types of fatty acids, omega-6s are inflammatory when consumed in excess. Most of us eat omega-6 fats in abundance and not nearly enough omega-3s. If this is of particular concern for you, beef is the better option for you.

Is it cheating if we say both? The truth is, the answer truly depends on your own goals and your needs. The best option is a combination of both, since they both provide different nutrients and flavors.

If you’re interested in healing your gut, make sure that you’re incorporating chicken broth. If you’re most concerned about skin health, make sure beef is in the mix too. But at the end of the day, either type is going to impart some serious benefits.

There’s no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy both and get the best of both animals in your diet! It’s a win-win.

How to Choose Between Chicken and Beef Bone Broth. (2024)

FAQs

How to Choose Between Chicken and Beef Bone Broth.? ›

While both beef and chicken bone broth contain gelatin, beef bone broth generally packs more. Since beef bone broth contains a higher overall concentration of collagen and simmers longer than chicken bone broth, there's not only more collagen to break down but more time for that collagen to break down into gelatin.

Should I have beef or chicken bone broth? ›

“While beef bone broth and chicken bone broth are healthful, beef bone broth has more collagen per serving. It is also better for gut health, for immunity, for sleep, and for mood. And it's better for skin and nails,” Schiff says.

How do I know which bone broth to buy? ›

Next, aim for options that are low in sodium and that feature quality ingredients. This will allow you to enjoy the health benefits of bone broth in your recipes. Bone broths made from grass-fed beef that feature an organic label or that specify reduced sodium content are great options.

Which tastes better chicken or beef bone broth? ›

Beef broth has a stronger, bolder taste. Chicken bone broth is often lighter and a more relatable taste. After all, most of us ate chicken soup growing up. As a result, upon first taste, you may prefer chicken bone broth over beef.

What type of bone broth is healthiest? ›

What kind of bone broth is healthy to drink? Non-gmo beef or chicken bone broth is the healthiest option to drink. Beef and chicken are both great options because they are high in protein, collagen, gelatin and amino acids for gut health and skin hydration.

Which bone broth has the most collagen? ›

Beef bones are more dense than chicken bones, which yields a higher concentration of minerals and collagen compared to chicken.

Which meat is best for bone broth? ›

The Best Bones for Bone Broth

I like to use a mix of big beef bones (saved from roasts or begged from the butcher), meaty short ribs or oxtails, and knuckle or neck bones. Those knuckle and neck bones have a lot of collagen, which give the broth body and a rich flavor.

Is it okay to drink bone broth every day? ›

Bone broth is generally safe to drink every day if consumed in moderation and as part of a nutritious, omnivorous diet, says Millstine. If you have any food allergies, always check the label.

How to tell a good bone broth? ›

It should contains at least 6g of protein

In order for bone broth to have a gel consistency at fridge temperature, there must be at least 6 grams of protein per 250ml. Anything less on the ingredient list means it is lacking in gelatin.

Is store bought bone broth high in collagen? ›

Bone broth contains a range of minerals including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, silicon, sulfur, and trace minerals that can help support overall health. Bone broth is naturally high in unprocessed collagen, which helps to promote healthy joints and improve skin health and elasticity.

What is the best bone broth for arthritis? ›

Which bone broth is best for joints? The best bone broth for joints is the instant chicken powder from Bluebird Provisions. It is the only one with 12 g protein and is full of healing amino acids like glycine (3 g), proline (2 g), glucosamine and chondroitin.

Why is chicken broth better than beef broth? ›

In conclusion, both beef and chicken broth offer unique health benefits and can be a valuable addition to your diet. While beef broth is higher in protein and collagen, chicken broth is lower in calories and fat. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and dietary requirements.

What makes beef bone broth taste better? ›

Adding spices and herbs are easy ways to make your tastiest bone broth while boosting the nutrition at the same time. Dried herbs and spices works well if you're in a pinch. However, nothing beats fresh herbs and spices. Herbs are particularly great if you are fasting with bone broth.

Is grocery store bone broth healthy? ›

The bones used to make commercial broth may contain high levels of heavy metals, which could make their way into the broth. However, homemade or store-bought bone broth levels are very low and unlikely to cause health problems.

What is the best broth for your gut? ›

Beef bone broth is a little better known for its gut-healing benefits, while chicken is recommended for electrolytes and skin health. Many opt to mix the two together to soak up optimal nutrition benefits. If that's not an option, we recommend switching it up every few weeks.

Is Swanson sipping bone broth healthy? ›

Swanson® Sipping Chicken Bone Broth Cup is the nutritious snack that's warm and savory, with naturally occurring collagen protein*. Made from chicken bones, vegetables, herbs and spices, this bone broth can be great for special diets.

Is chicken or beef bone broth better for a leaky gut? ›

Beef bone broth is a little better known for its gut-healing benefits, while chicken is recommended for electrolytes and skin health. Many opt to mix the two together to soak up optimal nutrition benefits. If that's not an option, we recommend switching it up every few weeks.

Is beef bone broth or chicken bone broth better for dogs? ›

Beef and poultry bone broth are best for dogs because they are lower in many allergens. Be sure to check with your veterinarian if you are unsure. And also note your dogs history. If they are sensitive to poultry products then opt for beef.

Is drinking bone broth the same as eating meat? ›

Bone marrow broth is rich in collagen, minerals, and certain vitamins, while meat provides higher protein content and a wider range of vitamins. The choice of which is more nutritious depends on individual dietary needs and preferences, emphasizing the importance of incorporating both sources into a balanced diet.

How often should you drink bone broth? ›

For best results we do suggest drinking bone broth every day, but if your budget or lifestyle doesn't allow that, aim for 3+ times a week. If you have specific goals, like building muscle or improving gut health, you may want to drink more broth.

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