All About Vegetable broth
Your complete guide to vegetable broth - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Vegetable broth Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for vegetable 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 pantry6-12 months past 'best by' date, or up to 2 years from production date
Signs of Spoilage
Bulging or leaking container, rust on cans, significant dents, off-odor (even before opening if container is compromised), mold visible through packaging (if transparent).
How to Check
Check the 'best by' or 'use by' date on the packaging. Visually inspect the container for any signs of damage (bulging, leaks, rust, deep dents). If the container is compromised, discard immediately.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. While safe past the 'best by' date, quality (flavor) may diminish over time.
homemade fridge3-5 days
Signs of Spoilage
Cloudy appearance, visible mold (fuzzy spots, often white, green, or black), sour or off-putting smell (yeasty, fermented, or rotten), slimy texture.
How to Check
Visually inspect for cloudiness, discoloration, or mold growth. Gently sniff for any sour, yeasty, or unpleasant odors. If any of these signs are present, discard the broth.
Storage Tips
Allow homemade broth to cool rapidly to room temperature (within 2 hours) before refrigerating. Divide into smaller, airtight containers to cool faster and for easier portioning. Store on a refrigerator shelf.
opened fridge5-7 days
Signs of Spoilage
Cloudy appearance, visible mold (fuzzy spots, often white, green, or black), sour or off-putting smell (yeasty, fermented, or rotten), slimy texture.
How to Check
Visually inspect for cloudiness, discoloration, or mold growth on the surface or sides of the container. Gently sniff for any sour, yeasty, or unpleasant odors. If any of these signs are present, discard the broth.
Storage Tips
Transfer any unused broth to an airtight container (glass or plastic) immediately after opening to minimize exposure to air and contaminants. Store on a refrigerator shelf, not in the door, where temperatures fluctuate more.
freezer4-6 months for best quality; safe indefinitely
Signs of Spoilage
While safe indefinitely, quality may degrade after 6 months. Signs of quality degradation include significant freezer burn (ice crystals, dried-out appearance), which can lead to diminished flavor. After thawing, if it shows signs of spoilage (mold, off-smell) it was likely already compromised before freezing or improperly handled after thawing.
How to Check
Check for excessive freezer burn. After thawing, assess for visual clarity and smell before use, as you would with refrigerated broth. If thawed broth smells off or has mold, discard it.
Storage Tips
Freeze broth in airtight, freezer-safe containers, freezer bags, or ice cube trays for easy portioning. Leave about an inch of headspace in rigid containers as liquids expand when frozen. Label with the date of freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or using the defrost setting on a microwave.