Is BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a soup is Kosher, we must look beyond the main flavors and inspect the chemical composition of the base. For this BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP, the primary concern for many is the combination of meat and dairy. However, the ingredients list tells a specific story.

The soup uses chicken stock (derived from chicken meat and juices) as a savory base. In strict Kosher law, mixing meat and milk is forbidden. However, the dairy component here is pasteurized process cheddar cheese and heavy cream. The key to this soup's Kosher status lies in the specific sourcing of these cheeses. If the cheese contains microbial enzymes rather than animal rennet, and the chicken is slaughtered correctly, the product can be certified Kosher.

We also see nisin preparation listed. Nisin is a natural preservative produced by the fermentation of the bacterium Lactococcus lactis. It is widely accepted as Kosher and Pareve. Additionally, the hot pepper sauce and diion mustard contain vinegar and spices, which are generally Kosher-friendly. There are no hidden animal fats listed other than the chicken fat and cream, both of which are permissible if processed correctly.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this soup is a dense source of energy. The presence of heavy cream, chicken fat, and cheddar cheese drives the saturated fat content significantly higher. A single serving likely contributes a substantial portion of the daily recommended limit for fat.

While the broccoli and carrots provide fiber and vitamins, the caloric density comes largely from the dairy and starch thickeners like corn starch and potato flour. The sugar content is relatively low compared to canned pasta meals, but the sodium levels—derived from the chicken base, cheese, and mustard—can be quite high. This soup fits well into a high-protein diet but should be monitored by those watching their cholesterol or sodium intake.