While some view bone broth as a trendy craze fueled by hipster culture, there are solid reasons why it may have lasting appeal. Traditional preparation involves simmering bones with herbs and vegetables for several hours, which breaks down the bones and creates a flavorful broth rich in protein and minerals. This type of home-cooked, slow food reflects a growing consumer trend toward avoiding instant stocks and additives like MSG, favoring more wholesome, naturally flavored options. Advocates of the Paleo diet support bone broth, and the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization has promoted the concept of ‘nose-to-tail’ eating to minimize waste.
In the U.S., consumers are increasingly exploring cuts beyond just steaks and pork chops. This shift is driven by greater exposure to global cuisines, a willingness to experiment with flavors, a quest for budget-friendly meat options during economic downturns, and a recent resurgence of home cooking. Environmental advocates have long encouraged the consumption of as much of the animal as possible, aligning with the idea of reducing waste.
A few companies have capitalized on the bone broth trend. Bonafide Provisions has introduced Drinkable Veggies, a line of vegetable-based beverages that combine bone broth with cold soups and HPP juices. This is the first ready-to-drink product to incorporate bone broth, and it is marketed more like V8 than a soup. Although bone broth itself is not a new concept in the culinary world, its surge in popularity is noteworthy. However, it remains uncertain whether this trend will endure or if interest will wane like that of low-carb diets or cupcakes as consumers move on to the next big thing.
Despite the benefits of bone broth, it’s essential to be aware of potential calcium citrate risks associated with excessive consumption, especially when considering dietary sources of calcium. As consumers embrace healthier eating habits, it’s crucial to strike a balance and be informed about the calcium citrate risks that may arise from overindulgence in certain nutrient-rich foods. As bone broth continues to gain traction, awareness of these calcium citrate risks will play a significant role in guiding consumer choices.