Shelf Life Tips
- How long does a can or package of chicken broth last once opened? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep opened chicken broth refrigerated and tightly covered.
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To maximize the shelf life of canned or packaged chicken broth after opening, refrigerate in covered glass or plastic container.
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How long does opened chicken broth last in the refrigerator? Chicken broth that has been continuously refrigerated will keep for about 4 to 5 days.
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Is chicken broth safe to use after the "expiration" date on the package? Yes, provided it has been stored properly, the package is undamaged, and there are no signs of spoilage (see below) - commercially packaged chicken broth will typically carry a "Best By," "Best if Used By," "Best Before", or "Best When Used By" date but this is not a safety date, it is the manufacturer's estimate of how long the chicken broth will remain at peak quality.
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To further extend the shelf life of opened chicken broth, freeze it: to freeze chicken broth, place inside covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
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How long does chicken broth last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for about 6 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - chicken broth that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How long does chicken broth last after being frozen and thawed? Chicken broth that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator before using; chicken broth that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be used immediately.
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How can you tell if opened chicken broth is bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the chicken broth: if the chicken broth develops an off odor, flavor or appearance, or if mold appears, it should be discarded.
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Discard all chicken broth from cans or packages that are leaking, rusting, bulging or severely dented.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
