Bone broth is rich, nourishing, and incredibly versatile. Whether you sip it straight, stir it into soups, or use it as a base for sauces and grains, it’s a kitchen staple for anyone who loves wholesome cooking. But once you’ve made or opened a batch, one question matters most: how long does bone broth last in the fridge?
The short answer? It depends on whether it’s homemade or store-bought, and how it’s stored. But don’t worry, we’ve got all the details to help you keep your broth fresh and safe.
So, How Long Does Bone Broth Last in the Fridge?
- Homemade bone broth: Lasts 4 to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
- Store-bought (opened): Usually good for 4 to 7 days after opening, depending on the brand—check the label.
- Store-bought (unopened): Shelf-stable varieties can last up to a year or more in the pantry, and several months in the fridge if sold refrigerated.
Always make sure your fridge is at or below 40°F (4°C) to safely store broth.
How to Store Bone Broth Properly
1. Cool It Quickly If you’ve made a fresh batch, let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours.
2. Use Airtight Containers Glass jars, BPA-free plastic containers, or silicone freezer trays with tight lids work great. The less air exposure, the better.
3. Label the Date Marking the date on your containers takes the guesswork out of knowing when it was made or opened.
How to Tell If Bone Broth Has Gone Bad
Even if you’re within the safe window, trust your senses:
- Smell: A sour, funky, or “off” smell means it’s time to toss it.
- Texture: If it’s unusually slimy or thickened beyond the natural gel, that’s not a good sign.
- Mold: Any visible mold on the surface or sides of the container is a clear no.
Don’t skim the mold and keep the rest. Once spoiled, the whole batch should be discarded.
Can You Freeze Bone Broth?
Yes, and you should if you’re not using it within a few days. Bone broth freezes beautifully and can last for up to 6 months in the freezer without losing much flavor or nutritional value.
To freeze:
- Portion into jars, freezer bags, or silicone molds (like ice cube trays)
- Leave room for expansion
- Label with the date
You can thaw broth overnight in the fridge, or drop frozen cubes straight into hot dishes as needed.
Bonus: How to Extend Shelf Life
If you want your broth to last a little longer in the fridge, try this trick: re-boil it after 3–4 days. Bringing it back to a rolling boil for a couple of minutes can extend its life by another 2–3 day, just make sure to cool and store it again properly.
This method isn’t foolproof, but it can be handy if you’re nearing the expiration window and don’t want to waste a good batch.
Final Thoughts
To sum up:
- Homemade bone broth: 4 to 5 days in the fridge
- Opened store-bought: 4 to 7 days
- Frozen: Up to 6 months
When in doubt, give it a sniff and check the texture. If anything seems off, it’s safer to discard it.
Bone broth is too good (and often too time-consuming) to waste, so proper storage is key. Whether you’re sipping it as a daily ritual or using it to boost your recipes, knowing how to store it right keeps both your broth and your body in good shape.
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