All About Cream of mushroom soup
Your complete guide to cream of mushroom soup - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Cream of mushroom soup Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for cream of mushroom soup 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.
frozen (after opening/cooking)2-3 months for best quality; safe indefinitely but quality degrades
Signs of Spoilage
While frozen, significant freezer burn (large ice crystals, dry leathery spots) indicates quality degradation. After thawing, check for spoilage signs as per 'opened in fridge' before reheating.
How to Check
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Visual Inspection (frozen): Look for excessive ice crystals or dry, discolored patches (freezer burn).
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After Thawing: Perform smell and visual checks as described for 'opened in fridge'. The texture may become slightly grainier or more separated upon thawing due to the dairy content, but this is a quality issue, not necessarily spoilage.
Storage Tips
Freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. Label with the date. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and whisk well to re-incorporate any separated liquids and restore a smoother consistency. Freezing may slightly alter the texture.
opened in fridge3-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Sour or off-odor, visible mold growth (fuzzy spots of any color), significant discoloration (e.g., green, dark brown, or black areas), excessive separation that doesn't re-mix, slimy or unusually thick texture.
How to Check
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Smell Test: A strong, sour, or 'off' smell is the primary indicator.
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Visual Inspection: Look for any mold on the surface or sides of the container. Note any unusual color changes or excessive watery separation.
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Texture Check: If it appears unusually slimy or has developed an uncharacteristic thickness or grittiness.
Storage Tips
Transfer any unused portion from the original can to a clean, airtight container (like glass or plastic) before refrigerating. Do not store in the opened metal can, as it can impart a metallic taste and potentially leach metals over time. Keep well-sealed to prevent absorption of other food odors.
unopened in pantry1-2 years past 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging or leaking can/carton, rust on the can, deep dents, foul odor upon opening, unusual pressure release when opened.
How to Check
Visually inspect the can/carton for any damage (bulges, leaks, rust, severe dents). If the container is compromised, discard immediately. Upon opening, listen for a 'whoosh' of air (indicating pressure build-up) and check for any off-odors before proceeding. Never taste if any of these signs are present.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The 'best by' or 'best if used by' date primarily refers to peak quality, not safety, for shelf-stable canned goods.