Shelf Life Tips
- How long does a package of soup mix last? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions -to maximize the shelf life of soup mix (including onion, vegetable, chicken noodle), store in a cool, dry area.
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Properly stored, a package of soup mix will generally stay at best quality for about 18-24 months.
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To maximize the shelf life of opened soup mix, keep package tightly closed.
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Is soup mix safe to use after the "expiration" date on the package? Yes, provided it is properly stored and the package is undamaged - commercially packaged soup mix 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 soup mix will remain at peak quality.
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Storage time shown is for best quality only - after that, the soup mix's texture, color or flavor may change, but in most cases, it will still be safe to consume if it has been stored properly, the package is undamaged, and there are no signs of spoilage (see below).
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How can you tell if soup mix is bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the soup mix: if soup mix develops an off odor, flavor or appearance, or if mold appears, it should be discarded.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
