How long can I keep beef broth in the fridge?

Have you ever opened your fridge, spotted a half-used carton of beef broth, and thought, “Is this still safe to eat?”

If you’ve been there, you’re not alone. The humble beef broth — whether store-bought or homemade — can be a kitchen hero, adding deep, savoury flavour to stews, soups, gravies, and sauces. But once opened, how long does that liquid gold actually last in your fridge before it turns from comforting to questionable?

In this guide, we’ll go beyond the vague labels and dig into what actually happens to beef broth over time. I’ve spoken with food safety experts, tested storage times myself, and compared what top chefs and home cooks recommend. Whether you’re batch-cooking or just trying to avoid waste, this guide is your go-to source for beef broth storage.

Understanding Beef Broth: What’s In It That Spoils?

Let’s start with what beef broth really is. At its core, it’s water simmered with beef bones, meat, aromatics (like onion, garlic, and celery), herbs, and a pinch of salt. Store-bought broths are often stabilised with preservatives, but even those have a ticking clock once opened.

Why does it spoil?
Once opened, broth is exposed to air, and microorganisms begin to multiply — especially in moist, protein-rich environments like beef broth. The fridge slows this down, but doesn’t stop it entirely.

So, How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?

1. Store-Bought Beef Broth (Opened)

Fridge Shelf Life: 3 to 5 days after opening

Storage Tip: Transfer any leftover broth to an airtight container if it came in a box. This helps slow oxidation and bacterial growth.

I’ve noticed that boxed broths sometimes develop a slight metallic or sour smell after four days. When in doubt, sniff and inspect.

Expert Insight: According to the USDA, perishable foods should be used within 3–4 days of opening. Broth, though liquid, is no exception due to its high protein content.

2. Homemade Beef Broth

Fridge Shelf Life: 3 to 4 days

Unlike the packaged kind, homemade broth lacks preservatives. I once made a rich, gelatinous batch and left it in the fridge for a week. On day five, a faint off smell gave it away — sadly, down the drain it went.

Pro Tip: Skim off the fat layer and keep it intact when storing — it can act as a natural seal against air and bacteria.

3. Unopened Store-Bought Beef Broth

Fridge Shelf Life: Not necessary to refrigerate until opened

Unopened broth is shelf-stable and can last up to a year (check the ‘best by’ date). However, once opened, the clock starts ticking.

Signs Your Beef Broth Has Gone Bad

So how do you know when it’s time to toss that broth?

Smell Test: A sour or rancid odour is the biggest red flag.
Appearance: Cloudiness, mould, or any film on the surface is a no-go.
Taste: If it tastes even slightly off, don’t risk it.

“When in doubt, throw it out. Spoiled broth may not just ruin your recipe — it can cause foodborne illness.” — Emma Collier, Food Safety Specialist at the UK Food Standards Agency

Can You Freeze Beef Broth?

Absolutely — and you should if you don’t plan to use it within a few days.

How to Freeze It:

Use ice cube trays for small portions
Freeze in zip-lock bags laid flat for space-saving
Label with the date (trust me, you’ll forget)

Freezer Shelf Life: Up to 6 months for best flavour

I always freeze leftover broth in silicone trays. They’re perfect for tossing into stir-fries or sauces without having to defrost a whole container.

Extending the Life of Your Broth: Practical Storage Tips

Cool Quickly: Don’t leave broth out for more than two hours. Rapid cooling prevents bacterial growth.
Use Airtight Containers: Oxygen is your enemy.
Label Everything: It’s easy to forget how long that jar’s been sitting there.
Don’t Double-Dip: Saliva introduces bacteria that speed up spoilage.

Real-World Example: Batch Cooking Gone Wrong

A friend of mine made 2 litres of beef broth to prep meals for the week. She assumed it’d last 7 days in the fridge. On day six, her stew smelled funny. Turned out, the broth had turned — and she learned the hard way that broth is not a “cook once, use forever” ingredient.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I reboil beef broth to make it last longer?

Reboiling may kill some bacteria, but it won’t remove toxins already present. It’s not a reliable method to extend freshness.

Does bone broth last longer than regular broth?

Not significantly. Despite being richer, it follows the same fridge timeline: 3–4 days once opened or homemade.

What’s the best container to store broth in?

Glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers with tight seals. Avoid storing in original opened cartons.

Can I use beef broth past the “best by” date if unopened?

Yes — if the packaging is intact and it doesn’t smell odd, it’s often fine. But always check before using.

The Takeaway

Beef broth is a culinary staple, but it’s also perishable. Once opened or made, it should be used within 3 to 5 days and stored in airtight containers. Freezing is your best friend if you’re unsure when you’ll use it next.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone who just bought broth for one recipe, understanding how long it lasts can save you from spoiled food — and even food poisoning.

Tried freezing your broth or made a batch that lasted surprisingly long? Let me know how you store yours — I’d love to compare notes and learn your kitchen tricks.