PACIFIC FOODS Organic Vegetable Broth scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and minimal nutrient contribution, despite having low calories and no fat.
This PACIFIC FOODS broth received a FoodScore of 40/100 (Poor).
It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
The product contains 0g protein, 0g fiber, and 0g fat per 100g.
Compared to a home-cooked vegetable broth, this SKU offers significantly fewer micronutrients.
Use this broth as a flavor base rather than a primary source of nutrition.
Scores -7 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.4g
1% of Daily Value
Sodium
52.08mg
2% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 40
PACIFIC FOODS Organic Vegetable Broth achieves a FoodScore of 40 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a 10-point penalty. While the broth is very low in calories at 4 per 100g and contains no protein, fiber, or total fat, it also provides negligible amounts of essential micronutrients like potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium, all at 0% DV per 100g. The ingredient list includes organic dextrose, a form of added sugar, contributing 0.4g per 100g, though this amount is relatively small. Compared to a home-cooked vegetable broth made with whole ingredients, this PACIFIC FOODS product lacks the naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that would be present in a less processed alternative. Its formulation focuses on flavor concentration rather than comprehensive nutritional value.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pacific foods organic vegetable broth actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Low Calorie and Fat-Free Base
This PACIFIC FOODS broth is an excellent option for those seeking a low-calorie and fat-free liquid base for cooking. With only 4 calories and 0g of total fat per 100g, it can be used to add flavor to dishes without significantly increasing their caloric or fat content. This makes it suitable for individuals managing their weight or following a low-fat diet, providing a flavorful foundation for soups, stews, and sauces without contributing to dietary restrictions.
Convenient Flavor Enhancer
The primary benefit of this vegetable broth is its convenience as a flavor enhancer. It provides a quick and easy way to infuse a savory, umami depth into various meals without the time commitment of making broth from scratch. The blend of organic carrot, celery, leek, onion, and mushroom juice concentrates offers a complex flavor profile that can elevate the taste of many dishes, making meal preparation more efficient for busy individuals.
Suitable for Plant-Based Diets
As an organic vegetable broth, this product is naturally suitable for plant-based and vegan diets. It contains no animal products or by-products, making it a versatile ingredient for vegetarian and vegan cooking. It can be used as a substitute for meat-based broths in recipes, allowing individuals to maintain their dietary preferences while still achieving rich, savory flavors in their meals without compromising their ethical or health choices.
PACIFIC FOODS Organic Vegetable Broth scores 40/100 (Poor) due to its ultra-processed nature and minimal nutrient contribution, despite having low calories and no fat.
How to eat it
Vegetable broth is commonly used as a foundational liquid in cooking, providing a savory base for a wide range of dishes. It's typically consumed as part of a larger meal, not usually drunk on its own. A common portion is 1 cup (240ml) when used in soups or stews.
Use this broth as a liquid base for cooking grains like rice or quinoa to add a subtle savory flavor.
Incorporate it into stir-fries or sautés to deglaze the pan and add moisture without extra oil.
Combine with herbs and spices to create a flavorful poaching liquid for vegetables or plant-based proteins.
When making homemade soups, consider fortifying this broth with fresh vegetables to boost nutrient content.
Things to keep in mind
This PACIFIC FOODS Organic Vegetable Broth is generally safe for most populations. The ingredient list includes sea salt, which contributes 52.08mg of sodium per 100g. While this amount is not excessively high, individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should be mindful of the total sodium when using this broth in larger quantities or combining it with other salty ingredients. There are no common allergens declared on the label. The presence of organic dextrose means it contains a small amount of added sugar, which might be a consideration for individuals strictly managing blood sugar, though the amount is minimal per serving.
PACIFIC FOODS Organic Vegetable Broth scores 40/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it is low in calories and fat, it offers minimal protein, fiber, and micronutrients. It's best viewed as a flavoring agent rather than a significant source of nutrition in your diet.
How does PACIFIC FOODS Organic Vegetable Broth compare to other broths?
Compared to a homemade vegetable broth, PACIFIC FOODS Organic Vegetable Broth contains significantly fewer naturally occurring vitamins and minerals. When compared to other branded broths like Swanson's Vegetable Broth, the nutritional profile can be similar in terms of low calories and micronutrients, but specific sodium and added sugar content may vary, so checking labels is always recommended.
What is organic dextrose in this broth?
Organic dextrose is a simple sugar derived from plants, used here as a sweetener and flavor enhancer. In this PACIFIC FOODS broth, it contributes 0.4g of added sugar per 100g, which is a relatively small amount. It helps to balance the savory notes of the vegetable concentrates.
What is a typical serving size for this broth?
The declared serving size is 'Amount per serving', but for practical use, a common portion in recipes is 1 cup (240ml). When using it as a base for soups or stews, consider the overall nutritional contribution of the other ingredients in your dish.
Can I drink this broth on its own?
While technically potable, this broth is formulated as a cooking ingredient to add flavor to dishes. It is very low in calories and nutrients, so drinking it on its own would not provide significant nutritional benefits or satiety. It's better utilized as a base for more nutrient-dense meals.