Kirkland Bone Broth

Unlocking the Secrets of One of Costco’s Most Popular Health Essentials

In the vast landscape of modern health foods, few products have experienced the meteoric rise quite like bone broth. Once a humble kitchen staple our grandmothers simmered for hours, bone broth has transformed into a wellness phenomenon, captivating health enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike. Among the many options available today, Kirkland Signature Bone Broth has emerged as one of the most accessible and beloved choices for both dedicated health aficionados and casual Costco shoppers.

As someone who has integrated bone broth into my daily routine for years, I’ve explored countless brands, homemade recipes, and variations. When Kirkland entered the bone broth scene, it created quite the buzz in both wellness circles and budget-conscious households. But what exactly makes this particular product worthy of your attention? Is it truly comparable to the artisanal broths that cost three times as much? Does it deliver the nutritional punch that bone broth enthusiasts seek?

I’ve spent considerable time researching, tasting, and incorporating Kirkland Bone Broth into various aspects of my life—from morning rituals to culinary creations. Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about this Costco gem, answering the most common questions and helping you determine if it deserves a place in your pantry.

Let’s dive deep into the world of Kirkland Bone Broth, exploring its ingredients, nutritional profile, culinary versatility, and much more.

What Exactly Is in Your Kirkland Bone Broth?

The foundation of any quality bone broth lies in its ingredients, and Kirkland’s version doesn’t disappoint. The ingredient list is refreshingly straightforward, especially compared to many commercial broths loaded with additives and flavor enhancers.

Kirkland Signature Bone Broth begins with the essentials: bones from either chicken or beef (depending on which variety you choose), filtered water, and a modest selection of vegetables and seasonings. The chicken variant typically contains chicken bones, onions, carrots, celery, sea salt, rosemary extract, and a few other minimal ingredients. The beef version follows a similar pattern with beef bones as the primary ingredient.

What’s notably absent from the ingredient list are artificial preservatives, MSG, and excessive additives that often plague commercial broths. This clean approach to ingredients is one of the factors that has made Kirkland’s offering so popular among health-conscious consumers.

The broth undergoes a slow-simmering process—though not quite as lengthy as the 24+ hours some artisanal brands boast—which extracts collagen, amino acids, and minerals from the bones. This process is what transforms regular stock into nutrient-dense bone broth, creating that signature rich mouthfeel and distinctive nutritional profile.

The Organic Question: Is Kirkland Bone Broth Made From Organic Ingredients?

For many health enthusiasts, the organic status of food products is a significant consideration. Kirkland Signature Bone Broth is not certified organic, which may be a deciding factor for some shoppers. However, this non-organic status contributes to its affordability compared to organic alternatives.

While not organic, Kirkland maintains quality standards for their bone broth production. The product is made without artificial preservatives and focuses on clean, recognizable ingredients. For those who prioritize organic certification above all else, there are alternatives on the market (at premium prices), but many consumers find Kirkland’s balance of quality and value perfectly acceptable.

Where to Find This Liquid Gold

As a Kirkland Signature product, this bone broth is primarily available at Costco warehouse locations throughout the United States and Canada. It’s typically found in the soup and broth section, often near other shelf-stable broths and stocks.

If you’re a Costco member with access to their online shopping platform, you may also be able to purchase it through Costco.com, though availability can vary by region. Unlike some Kirkland products that have made their way to Amazon, the bone broth tends to remain exclusive to Costco channels.

For those without a Costco membership, you might occasionally find Kirkland Bone Broth through third-party resellers, though prices will likely be higher than purchasing directly from Costco.

Price Point: How Much Will Your Bone Broth Habit Cost?

One of the most compelling aspects of Kirkland Bone Broth is its price point, especially when compared to premium bone broth brands. At Costco, a typical package containing multiple cartons of Kirkland Bone Broth costs significantly less per ounce than competitors.

As of my recent visits, the bone broth is typically priced around $11.99 for a package containing six 32-ounce cartons. This breaks down to approximately $2.00 per carton or about 6 cents per ounce—a fraction of what you’d pay for boutique brands like Kettle & Fire or Bonafide Provisions, which can cost upwards of 50 cents per ounce.

This exceptional value is part of what makes Kirkland Bone Broth so appealing to regular consumers. You can maintain a daily bone broth habit without breaking the bank, something that simply isn’t feasible with many premium brands unless you have considerable disposable income.

Dietary Considerations: Is Kirkland Bone Broth Gluten-Free?

Good news for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease: Kirkland Signature Bone Broth is gluten-free. The product doesn’t contain any wheat, barley, rye, or other gluten-containing ingredients.

This gluten-free status makes it accessible to a broader range of consumers with dietary restrictions. However, as with any product consumed by those with severe gluten allergies or celiac disease, it’s always wise to check the most current packaging for any changes in manufacturing processes or cross-contamination warnings.

Nutritional Breakdown: What’s Actually in Each Serving?

The nutritional profile of Kirkland Bone Broth is impressive, particularly for a mass-market product. Each serving (typically one cup or 240ml) contains approximately:

• Calories: 45-50 (varies slightly between chicken and beef varieties)
• Protein: 9-10 grams
• Fat: 0-1 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0-1 grams
• Sodium: 400-450mg (approximately 19% of recommended daily intake)
• Potassium: 4% of daily value
• Calcium: 4% of daily value

Beyond these standard nutritional markers, bone broth is prized for compounds not typically listed on nutrition labels, including various amino acids (particularly glycine, proline, and glutamine), gelatin, and collagen. The presence of these compounds is evident in quality bone broth by its tendency to gel when refrigerated—a characteristic that Kirkland Bone Broth does exhibit, though perhaps not as pronouncedly as some ultra-premium brands.

The protein content is particularly noteworthy, offering 9-10 grams per cup with minimal calories. This high protein-to-calorie ratio makes it an excellent option for those monitoring their protein intake while keeping calories in check.

Keto and Paleo Compatibility: Does Kirkland Bone Broth Fit Special Diets?

With the rise of specialized dietary approaches like ketogenic and paleo diets, bone broth has become increasingly popular as a compliant food option. Kirkland Bone Broth aligns well with both of these dietary frameworks.

For keto followers, the broth’s macronutrient profile is ideal: high in protein with minimal carbohydrates and moderate fat content. The negligible carb count (0-1 grams per serving) means it won’t disrupt ketosis, making it an excellent option for keto dieters seeking quick, warm nourishment without carbohydrate concerns.

Similarly, the paleo community embraces bone broth as an ancestral food that aligns with evolutionary nutrition principles. Kirkland’s version, with its focus on bones, water, and simple vegetables, fits comfortably within paleo guidelines. The absence of artificial additives and processed ingredients further solidifies its paleo-friendly status.

Storage Requirements: Does Your Broth Need Refrigeration?

One of the conveniences of Kirkland Bone Broth is its packaging and storage flexibility. The broth comes in shelf-stable cartons that don’t require refrigeration until opening, thanks to the aseptic packaging process.

This shelf-stability makes it convenient for stocking up and storing in your pantry until needed—a significant advantage over fresh refrigerated bone broths that have much shorter shelf lives before opening.

Once opened, however, the broth should be refrigerated and consumed within 7-10 days for optimal freshness and safety. If you find yourself with more open broth than you can use in that timeframe, it freezes beautifully in ice cube trays or small containers for future use.

Shelf Life: How Long Does Kirkland Bone Broth Last?

Unopened Kirkland Bone Broth has an impressive shelf life, typically ranging from 12-18 months from the production date. This long shelf life is another advantage for bulk shoppers who like to stock up during Costco runs.

The “best by” date is clearly marked on each carton, making it easy to rotate your stock and ensure you’re consuming the product at peak quality. While the broth may still be safe to consume after this date, the flavor and nutritional quality might begin to degrade.

After opening, as mentioned above, refrigerate the broth and use it within 7-10 days. Any noticeable changes in smell, appearance, or taste are indicators that it’s time to discard the product.

Flavor Varieties: Chicken or Beef?

Kirkland offers bone broth in the two most popular varieties: chicken and beef. Each has its distinctive flavor profile and potential culinary and nutritional applications.

The chicken bone broth offers a lighter, more delicate flavor that works beautifully in light soups, risottos, and dishes where you don’t want the broth to overpower other ingredients. Many people find the chicken variety more approachable for drinking straight, especially when new to bone broth.

The beef bone broth delivers a deeper, more robust flavor profile with earthy, umami notes. It excels in heartier applications like French onion soup, beef stew, and gravies. Some nutritional enthusiasts prefer beef bone broth for its potentially higher collagen content, though both varieties offer impressive nutritional benefits.

Both flavors maintain the same high quality and clean ingredient standards, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use.

Health Benefits: Why Bone Broth Has Earned Its Superfood Status

The surge in bone broth’s popularity isn’t merely a culinary trend—it’s backed by a growing appreciation for its potential health benefits. While research continues to evolve, several compelling health advantages have been associated with regular bone broth consumption:

1. Joint health support: The collagen and gelatin in bone broth contain amino acids that may support joint health and potentially reduce joint pain and inflammation.
2. Gut health promotion: Many digestive health practitioners recommend bone broth for its easily digestible nutrients and compounds that may help repair the intestinal lining and support gut health.
3. Skin, hair, and nail benefits: The collagen content potentially contributes to improved skin elasticity and stronger hair and nails.
4. Immune system support: Traditional wisdom across many cultures has long held that bone broth helps support immune function, particularly during illness.
5. Protein source: With 9-10 grams of protein per cup, bone broth offers a convenient way to increase protein intake without significantly increasing calories.
6. Hydration with electrolytes: The mineral content makes bone broth a more nutritionally rich hydration option than plain water.
7. Anti-inflammatory properties: Some compounds in bone broth may help reduce systemic inflammation.

Kirkland Bone Broth delivers these potential benefits in an accessible, affordable package. While it may not contain the same concentration of beneficial compounds as some ultra-premium broths simmered for 24+ hours, it still offers substantial nutritional value that far exceeds conventional broths and stocks.

Culinary Versatility: Beyond Just Sipping

While many enthusiasts enjoy bone broth as a standalone beverage, Kirkland Bone Broth’s culinary applications extend far beyond simple sipping. Here are some creative ways to incorporate it into your cooking:

• Superior soup base: Replace water or standard broth with bone broth in any soup recipe for enhanced flavor and nutrition.
• Elevated grains: Cook rice, quinoa, or other grains in bone broth instead of water for infused flavor and added protein.
• Sauce foundation: Use bone broth as the liquid component in gravies, pan sauces, and reductions.
• Braising liquid: Add depth to braised meats and vegetables by using bone broth as your cooking liquid.
• Mashed potato magic: Replace some or all of the milk in mashed potatoes with bone broth for a savory twist.
• Risotto richness: Create exceptionally creamy risotto by using bone broth as your simmering liquid.
• Vegetable infusion: Steam or sauté vegetables with a splash of bone broth for enhanced flavor without added fat.
• Gravy base: Make quick, nutritious gravies using bone broth, herbs, and a simple thickener.

The culinary possibilities are truly endless, making Kirkland Bone Broth a versatile kitchen staple that transcends its health food reputation.

Brand Comparison: How Does Kirkland Stack Up Against Premium Competitors?

In the bone broth market, brands like Kettle & Fire, Bonafide Provisions, and Epic have established themselves as premium options, often commanding prices three to four times higher than Kirkland’s offering. The question many consumers face is whether these premium prices deliver proportionally better quality.

When comparing Kirkland to premium competitors, several factors come into play:

Simmering time: Many premium brands advertise extended simmering times of 24+ hours, compared to Kirkland’s likely shorter production process. Longer simmering potentially extracts more collagen and nutrients.

Sourcing standards: Premium brands often emphasize organic, pasture-raised, and grass-fed sourcing. Kirkland doesn’t make these specific claims, though their quality standards are generally respected.

Concentration: Some premium broths appear more concentrated, evidenced by their tendency to gel more firmly when refrigerated.

Flavor complexity: Artisanal brands sometimes offer more complex flavor profiles with additional herbs, spices, and aromatics.

However, the practical reality for many consumers is that Kirkland delivers 80-90% of the benefits at 25-30% of the cost. This value proposition makes it the rational choice for daily consumption, with premium brands perhaps reserved for special purposes or therapeutic uses.

Sodium Content: Is Kirkland Bone Broth Low in Sodium?

For those monitoring sodium intake, it’s worth noting that Kirkland Bone Broth contains approximately 400-450mg of sodium per cup, representing about 19% of the recommended daily value.

While not explicitly marketed as “low sodium,” this level is moderate compared to many commercial broths and soups. However, those on strict sodium-restricted diets may need to account for this sodium content in their daily calculations.

The sodium level strikes a balance that most consumers find palatable without being overly salty. The salt enhances the broth’s natural flavors without dominating the taste profile.

Preservative Profile: What Keeps Kirkland Bone Broth Shelf-Stable?

One of the impressive aspects of Kirkland Bone Broth is its achievement of shelf stability without relying on artificial preservatives. Instead of chemical preservatives, the broth utilizes:

• Aseptic packaging technology: The sterilization of both the packaging material and the product before filling, creating a sterile environment.
• Natural preservatives: Small amounts of rosemary extract serve as a natural preservative.
• Acidity control: Maintaining specific pH levels helps prevent microbial growth.

This approach allows Kirkland to deliver a clean-label product with extended shelf life—a win-win for health-conscious consumers who still appreciate convenience.

Consumption Approaches: Sipping vs. Cooking

While bone broth’s versatility in cooking is well-established, many consumers enjoy it simply as a hot beverage. Kirkland Bone Broth works excellently for this purpose, offering a satisfying, savory alternative to coffee or tea.

For straight sipping, many enthusiasts recommend:

• Heating the broth just until steaming (not boiling)
• Adding a pinch of sea salt or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors
• Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for aromatic complexity
• Adding a small amount of good-quality fat (like a drizzle of olive oil or a small pat of grass-fed butter) for mouthfeel and satiety

Whether consumed as a morning ritual, afternoon pick-me-up, or evening wind-down beverage, Kirkland Bone Broth offers a convenient option that doesn’t require the commitment of homemade broth or the expense of boutique brands.

Consumer Experiences: What Are People Saying?

Consumer reviews of Kirkland Bone Broth are predominantly positive, with recurring themes in feedback:

Value proposition: Many reviewers express amazement at the quality-to-price ratio compared to specialty bone broth brands.

Convenience: The shelf-stable packaging and Costco’s bulk availability earn high marks from busy households.

Taste profile: Most consumers find the flavor pleasant and versatile, though some premium broth enthusiasts note it’s somewhat milder than artisanal versions.

Gelling quality: Reviews are mixed on the broth’s tendency to gel when refrigerated, with some reporting good gelling (indicating high collagen content) and others noting minimal gelling.

Digestive benefits: Many regular consumers report improvements in digestion and gut health with consistent use.

Culinary performance: Home cooks consistently praise its performance in recipes, noting enhanced flavor in soups, stews, and sauces.

The consensus appears to be that while Kirkland Bone Broth may not be the absolute premium option in every category, it excels in the balance of quality, convenience, and value—making it a practical choice for regular consumption.

Sourcing Standards: Understanding the Origins of Your Broth

For ethically-minded consumers, the sourcing of animal products is often a primary concern. Kirkland Bone Broth doesn’t explicitly advertise using bones from pasture-raised or grass-fed animals, which is a point of differentiation from some premium brands.

Costco generally maintains responsible sourcing standards across their Kirkland Signature line, but without specific pasture-raised or grass-fed claims, it’s reasonable to assume the bones come from conventionally raised animals. This conventional sourcing is likely one factor that enables the product’s affordable price point.

Consumers who prioritize animal welfare and specific raising practices above all else might prefer brands with explicit pasture-raised or grass-fed certification, despite the significant price premium these certifications command.

Quantity and Packaging: How Much Are You Getting?

Kirkland Bone Broth typically comes in a multi-pack of six 32-ounce cartons. Each 32-ounce carton contains approximately four 1-cup servings, meaning a standard package provides about 24 servings of bone broth.

The packaging utilizes Tetra Pak technology, which is both practical and has some environmental advantages over alternatives:

• Shelf stability without refrigeration until opening
• Relatively lightweight for shipping efficiency
• More recyclable than some alternative packaging options
• Space-efficient rectangular shape for storage

For households that use bone broth regularly, this bulk packaging is convenient and reduces packaging waste compared to purchasing multiple smaller containers.

Incorporating Kirkland Bone Broth Into Your Wellness Routine

For those looking to make bone broth a regular part of their wellness routine, Kirkland’s offering presents an accessible entry point. Here are some practical approaches to integration:

Morning ritual: Replace your first cup of coffee with bone broth, perhaps enhanced with a pinch of turmeric or ginger for anti-inflammatory properties.

Pre-workout nutrition: A cup of bone broth 30-60 minutes before exercise provides easily digestible protein without heaviness.

Post-workout recovery: The amino acid profile supports muscle recovery when consumed after physical activity.

Afternoon slump solution: Instead of reaching for caffeine or sugar when energy dips, try a cup of warm bone broth.

Evening wind-down: A cup of bone broth can become part of a calming evening routine, providing nutrients while signaling to your body that it’s time to relax.

Seasonal support: Increasing consumption during cold and flu season provides additional immune support when you need it most.

Intermittent fasting companion: For those practicing intermittent fasting, bone broth often serves as an acceptable fasting beverage that doesn’t trigger significant insulin response.

The affordability of Kirkland Bone Broth makes these daily practices sustainable in a way that would be financially challenging with premium brands costing three to four times as much.

Conclusion: Is Kirkland Bone Broth Worth Adding to Your Cart?

After thoroughly examining Kirkland Signature Bone Broth from multiple angles—nutritional, culinary, financial, and practical—the verdict is clear: for most consumers, it represents an exceptional value proposition in the bone broth category.

While it may not match the absolute premium standards of boutique brands simmered for 24+ hours using bones exclusively from pasture-raised animals, it delivers impressive quality at a fraction of the price. This price-to-quality ratio makes daily bone broth consumption financially feasible for average households, democratizing access to this traditional health food.

The true strength of Kirkland Bone Broth lies in its balance of quality, convenience, and affordability—making it not just a viable option, but often the most practical choice for regular consumption. Its clean ingredient list, absence of artificial preservatives, versatile flavor profile, and convenient packaging further strengthen its case as a pantry staple.

For those new to bone broth or veterans looking to maintain their habit without breaking the bank, Kirkland Signature Bone Broth deserves a place in your Costco cart. Your wallet—and quite possibly your wellbeing—will thank you.