All About Bone broth
Your complete guide to bone broth - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Bone broth Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for bone broth in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Unopened Shelf-Stable (Pantry)6-12 months (or until 'Best By' date)
Signs of Spoilage
Swollen or bulging packaging, leaks, unusual sediment at the bottom (if previously clear), a 'hiss' or 'pop' sound upon opening (beyond normal vacuum seal release), or an immediate foul odor.
How to Check
Check the 'Best By' or 'Use By' date on the packaging. Visually inspect the container for any damage, swelling, or leaks. Upon opening, carefully smell for any sour, yeasty, or off-putting odors before tasting. Do not taste if any of the above signs are present.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Once opened, it must be refrigerated.
Frozen6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
While frozen broth remains safe for a very long time, quality can degrade. Signs of quality degradation include significant freezer burn (large ice crystals, dried-out appearance), or a noticeably bland or off-flavor upon thawing and reheating. True spoilage (e.g., mold) is rare if frozen properly, but an off-odor after thawing would indicate an issue.
How to Check
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Visual Inspection (after thawing): Look for any unusual discoloration or an excessively grainy/separated texture that doesn't re-emulsify upon reheating.
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Smell Test (after thawing): Though rare, an off-odor after thawing indicates a problem.
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Taste Test (cautious): If visual and smell tests pass, a small taste can confirm if the quality is still acceptable.
Storage Tips
Freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving headspace for expansion (especially with glass containers). Label with the date of freezing. Freezing in individual portions (e.g., ice cube trays, muffin tins) makes for convenient thawing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, under cold running water, or in the microwave. Do not refreeze once thawed.
Opened (Refrigerated)3-7 days
Signs of Spoilage
Sour, putrid, or yeasty smell; cloudy appearance (if it was originally clear); visible mold growth (fuzzy spots of various colors); slimy or unusually thick texture; excessive sediment or stringiness that wasn't present before.
How to Check
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Smell Test: A strong, sour, acidic, or 'off' odor is the most reliable indicator.
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Visual Inspection: Look for any mold on the surface or sides of the container. Check for unusual cloudiness, discoloration, or foreign particles.
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Texture Test: If poured, it might appear unusually thick, slimy, or stringy. Do not taste if any spoilage signs are present.
Storage Tips
Always store opened or homemade broth in an airtight container to prevent contamination and absorption of fridge odors. Cool homemade broth rapidly (within 2 hours) before refrigerating. Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours. For homemade broth, ensure it's cooled completely before sealing and refrigerating.