Does Vegetarian Vegetable Bouillon contain dairy or gluten?

No, this specific formulation contains no dairy ingredients (like milk or whey) and no gluten ingredients. It is safe for both vegan and gluten-free diets.

Is Vegetarian Vegetable Bouillon good for weight loss?

It is very low in calories (usually under 10 calories per cup), which can help add flavor to diet foods. However, the high sodium content can cause water retention, which may temporarily affect the scale.

Where can I buy Vegetarian Vegetable Bouillon?

This product is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kroger, as well as online through Amazon and grocery delivery services.

Is Vegetarian Vegetable Bouillon safe for kids?

It is generally safe, but the high sodium content and the presence of MSG may be a concern for some parents. It is best to dilute it heavily if serving to young children.

Is Vegetarian Vegetable Bouillon Gluten Free?

Yes, Vegetarian Vegetable Bouillon is gluten-free. Based on the ingredient label, there are no wheat, barley, rye, or hidden gluten sources present. This makes it a safe option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity looking for a savory flavor boost.

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I always look beyond the marketing claims and dive straight into the formulation. When analyzing this Vegetarian Vegetable Bouillon, the primary concern for gluten-free consumers is the source of the thickening agents and flavor carriers. Let's look at the specific ingredients.

The primary thickener here is corn starch. This is a pure starch derived from corn, which is naturally gluten-free. It acts as a stabilizer and provides body to the broth. Alongside this, we see maltodextrin. This is a common ingredient that often causes confusion. While maltodextrin can be derived from wheat, in the United States and the EU, it is highly processed and hydrolyzed to the point where the gluten protein is reduced to negligible levels (under 20ppm), rendering it safe for a gluten-free diet. Unless specified otherwise, maltodextrin in processed foods is considered safe.

We also see xanthan gum, a fermentation-derived thickener that is universally gluten-free. The flavor profile is built using natural flavor, tomato powder, and dehydrated vegetables like cabbage and parsley. None of these carry inherent gluten. The ingredient list lacks any form of wheat flour, hydrolyzed wheat protein, or brewer's yeast, which are common culprits in bouillon cubes. Therefore, from a formulation standpoint, this product is chemically free of gluten.

Nutritional Value

While this bouillon is an excellent gluten-free flavoring, it is important to view it through a nutritional lens. The serving size is small, and the calorie count is negligible, which is great for flavoring water or rice without adding significant energy intake. However, the density of sodium is high. The presence of monosodium glutamate (MSG), disodium guanylate, and disodium inosinate creates a potent umami flavor, but these contribute significantly to the sodium content. For individuals monitoring blood pressure or adhering to a low-sodium heart health diet, this product should be used sparingly.

Furthermore, the inclusion of palm oil and hydrogenated palm oil adds saturated fat to the profile. While the amount per serving is low, it is a source of processed fat. The sugar content is minimal, so it won't spike blood glucose levels significantly. It fits well into a low-carb or keto diet regarding net carbs, but the sodium load remains the primary nutritional flag to watch.