Bone broth has surged in popularity in recent years due to its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. Packed with minerals, collagen, and amino acids, it’s celebrated for supporting joint health, improving skin elasticity, boosting immunity, and promoting gut health. Whether you’re sipping it as a warm drink, using it as a base for soups, or incorporating it into sauces, bone broth can easily become a kitchen staple.
But as with all food products, bone broth doesn’t last forever. The rich, nutrient-packed liquid needs proper care to ensure it doesn’t spoil before you’re able to enjoy it. So, can bone broth go bad? And if it can, how can you tell? Don’t worry, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know to keep your bone broth safe and flavorful.
Can Bone Broth Go Bad?
Yes, bone broth can go bad, and while it has a reputation for being a shelf-stable, long-lasting food, it’s not immune to spoilage. Since bone broth is made with animal bones, vegetables, herbs, and water, it’s perishable and can attract harmful bacteria if not stored correctly. While its long simmering process and natural gelatin content help preserve it for a time, it doesn’t last indefinitely.
Whether it’s homemade or store-bought, there are some key factors to keep in mind when considering how long bone broth lasts, and how to tell when it’s no longer safe to consume.
Shelf Life For Bone Broth
The shelf life of bone broth can vary based on how it’s made and how it’s stored. Here’s a breakdown of how long it typically lasts:
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Homemade Bone Broth (in The Fridge)
After cooking, homemade bone broth should be refrigerated and used within 4 to 5 days. If stored properly in an airtight container, it can last a little longer, but it’s best consumed sooner for optimal flavor and freshness.
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Homemade Bone Broth (in The Freezer)
If you can’t use it up within a few days, homemade bone broth can be frozen. When stored in freezer-safe containers or bags, it can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.
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Store-bought Bone Broth (unopened)
Most commercially prepared bone broths have preservatives and are vacuum-sealed, which means they can last much longer. Unopened store-bought bone broth can last 6 to 12 months when stored in a cool, dry pantry. Always check the expiration date for specifics.
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Store-bought Bone Broth (opened)
Once you open a carton or jar of store-bought bone broth, it should be treated similarly to homemade broth. It’ll last 3 to 5 days in the fridge. However, check for any signs of spoilage as time passes.
Common Signs Of Spoilage
How do you know when your bone broth has gone bad? It’s not always obvious, but there are several key signs to look for:
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Smell
Fresh bone broth has a pleasant, savory aroma, often with hints of herbs or roasted bones. If your broth smells sour, rancid, or "off," it’s a clear indication that it has spoiled. Trust your nose; a bad smell is usually the first sign of trouble.
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Appearance
The broth may start to appear cloudy or develop a slimy texture as bacteria grow. This can happen more easily in homemade broth due to the absence of preservatives. If you notice mold growing on the surface, it’s a sign that the broth is no longer safe to consume.
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Taste
If the broth smells fine but tastes off, sour, or has a tangy flavor that wasn’t there before, it’s likely gone bad. The taste will be noticeably different from its normal savory profile.
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Separation Or Unusual Texture
Bone broth is known for its gelatinous texture when cold, but if the broth separates and the gelatin doesn’t reconstitute when reheated, or if it becomes unusually thick, it could be a sign of spoilage. This can happen as the broth ages.
How To Store Bone Broth?
Proper storage is crucial to extending the shelf life of bone broth and ensuring it stays fresh. Here are some expert tips to help:
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Refrigeration
Store homemade or opened store-bought bone broth in airtight containers in the fridge. Glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers are ideal, as they won’t leach chemicals into the broth. Keep your fridge temperature at or below 40°F (4°C) for safe storage.
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Freezing
Freezing bone broth is an excellent option for long-term storage. You can freeze it in various ways:
- Ice Cube Trays: If you only need a small amount of broth, freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. This is great for adding to sauces or reheating individual servings.
- Freezer Bags: Lay freezer bags flat to freeze, which saves space and allows you to break off pieces as needed.
- Containers: If you prefer a larger batch, store it in freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room at the top to account for expansion.
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Avoiding Contamination
Always ensure your bone broth is completely cool before refrigerating or freezing it to prevent the growth of bacteria. If the broth has been sitting out for more than two hours, it’s best to discard it.
Expert Tips
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Skim The Fat
Once your bone broth has cooled, the fat will rise to the top and solidify. While fat is delicious and adds flavor, it can also spoil more quickly. Skimming the fat off before storing or freezing can help prolong the shelf life of your broth.
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Use A Vacuum Sealer
If you’re freezing large quantities of broth, using a vacuum sealer will help maintain its freshness for even longer. Vacuum-sealed bags protect the broth from freezer burn and preserve its quality.
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Label Everything
Always label your bone broth with the date it was made or opened. This simple step helps you keep track of how long it’s been stored and ensures you use it before it spoils.
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Avoid Reheating Multiple Times
Reheating bone broth repeatedly can shorten its shelf life. Try to only reheat the amount you’ll consume in one sitting to preserve the quality of the leftovers.
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Consider The Type Of Bone
Broths made from beef bones or lamb bones may have a slightly different shelf life compared to chicken-based broths. Beef broth tends to be richer and can hold up a little longer, especially when stored properly.
FAQs
Can Bone Broth Go Bad If Left Out At Room Temperature?
Yes, bone broth can go bad if left out at room temperature for too long. It should not be left out for more than two hours to avoid bacterial growth. If it’s left out longer, it should be discarded.
How Long Can Bone Broth Last In The Fridge?
When properly stored in an airtight container, bone broth can last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator. After this time, it may begin to spoil and should be discarded.
Can Bone Broth Go Bad If Frozen?
Bone broth can last for several months in the freezer, typically around 4-6 months. Freezing preserves its quality, but it’s important to store it in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
What Are The Signs That Bone Broth Has Gone Bad?
Signs that bone broth has gone bad include a sour or off smell, a change in color (such as a darker or cloudy appearance), and the presence of mold. If the broth has a strange taste or texture, it should not be consumed.
How Can I Extend The Shelf Life Of Bone Broth?
To extend the shelf life of bone broth, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze it if you won’t be using it within a few days. Properly sealing the broth reduces the exposure to air, which helps maintain its freshness.
Is It Safe To Drink Bone Broth Past The Expiration Date?
While the expiration date is a good guideline, bone broth may still be safe to consume after it, as long as it shows no signs of spoilage. However, it’s important to check for any off smells, discoloration, or mold before consuming it.
Can Bone Broth Go Bad After Opening?
Yes, once opened, bone broth should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-5 days. After this time, it may start to spoil. It’s important to follow storage guidelines and check for signs of spoilage.
How Can I Tell If Homemade Bone Broth Is Bad?
Homemade bone broth should be checked for any unusual odors, such as sourness or rancidity. The broth should also be examined for mold growth on the surface and an off-putting taste. If any of these signs are present, discard it.
Can I Still Use Bone Broth If It Smells Slightly Sour?
If bone broth smells slightly sour, it may be a sign of spoilage. It’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it. A sour odor indicates the presence of bacteria or yeast, which can be harmful.
Does Bone Broth Need To Be Refrigerated?
Yes, bone broth should always be refrigerated if you plan to use it within a few days. If you’re not planning to consume it soon, freezing is the best option to preserve its freshness.
