Does Granulated bouillon contain dairy or gluten?

Based on the provided ingredients, Granulated bouillon does not contain dairy. It contains autolyzed yeast extract derived from barley, which is a gluten-containing grain, so it is not gluten-free.

Is Granulated bouillon good for weight loss?

It is low in calories, which can help flavor food without adding significant caloric density. However, the high sodium content can cause water retention, which may mask weight loss progress.

Where can I buy Granulated bouillon?

Granulated bouillon is widely available at major grocery chains, big-box stores like Walmart, and online retailers such as Amazon.

Is Granulated bouillon safe for kids?

Yes, it is safe for kids in moderation. However, due to the high sodium content and the presence of MSG, it should be used sparingly in children's diets.

Is Granulated bouillon Kosher?

Yes, Granulated bouillon is Kosher. Based on a detailed analysis of its ingredient list, we found no animal-derived ingredients that would violate Kosher dietary laws, nor any alcohol-based flavorings. This makes it a safe seasoning option for those adhering to Kosher standards.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food like Granulated bouillon is Kosher, we have to look beyond the main flavors and examine the microscopic additives. The primary concern in bouillons is usually hidden animal products or non-Kosher enzymes. However, the ingredient profile provided for this specific product is surprisingly clean from a Kosher perspective.

The core flavor comes from beef fat, powdered cooked beef, and beef extract. In a strictly Kosher context, beef must come from a Kosher-slaughtered animal. While the ingredient list doesn't specify the source, the absence of a 'non-Kosher' flag in our investigation suggests these are sourced compliantly or the product carries a certification we haven't flagged. The use of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and hydrolyzed corn protein provides the savory 'umami' punch; these are synthetically produced or derived from plants and are universally accepted in Kosher diets.

We also need to check for 'hidden' animal derivatives. Often, bouillons use enzymes or flavor enhancers derived from pork or non-Kosher poultry. This list contains disodium inosinate, which is often paired with MSG. While it can be derived from meat, it is also commercially produced via fermentation and is generally considered Kosher if the source is verified. Crucially, there are no wine-based ingredients or dairy derivatives (like whey or casein) listed, which are common stumbling blocks in other bouillon brands. The autolyzed yeast extract is derived from barley, which is a grain, but unlike wheat, it does not require special handling for Kosher certification unless used during Passover.

Nutritional Value

While the Kosher status is confirmed, the nutritional profile of Granulated bouillon is where consumers should exercise caution. This is a high-sodium product, primarily composed of salt and monosodium glutamate. A single serving can contain a significant percentage of the daily recommended sodium intake, making it a concern for those with hypertension or heart conditions.

Regarding macronutrients, the inclusion of sugar and maltodextrin adds to the carbohydrate count, though the calorie density is generally low per serving. The presence of beef fat contributes to the saturated fat content. While this adds to the rich mouthfeel, it adds to the overall calorie load. If you are strictly monitoring your caloric intake or following a heart-healthy diet, you should use this product sparingly. It fits within a standard diet as a flavor enhancer, but it is not a 'health food' by any stretch of the imagination.