How Long Does Bone Broth Last?
Bone Broth lasts 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator. Freezing extends storage to 6-12 months. Discard if you notice sour or off smell or cloudy appearance or mold growth. Store properly to maximize freshness and safety.
Bone Broth lasts 3-4 days when properly stored in the refrigerator. Check for signs of spoilage before consuming after this period.
Refrigerator
3-4 days
Pantry (Unopened)
12 months
After Opening
3-4 days
Freezer
6-12 months
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Can I Still Use This Bone Broth?
Quick decision guide based on how you stored it:
In the fridge
Safe for 3-4 days. Check for spoilage signs before use.
In the fridge (opened)
Use within 3-4 days. Cover or seal to maintain freshness.
Left out at room temp
Pantry-stable for 12 months if sealed.
Left out at room temp (opened)
Opened and unrefrigerated — use immediately or discard after 2 hours.
In the freezer
Frozen quality maintained for 6-12 months. Safe indefinitely if kept at 0°F.
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Bone Broth Shelf Life by Storage Method
| Storage Method | Duration | Safety Level |
|---|---|---|
| Pantry / Room Temp (Unopened) | 12 months | SAFE |
| After Opening | 3-4 days | CAUTION |
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | CAUTION |
| Freezer | 6-12 months | SAFE |
About Bone Broth
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid made by simmering animal bones and connective tissue. Proper storage is essential to maintain its flavor, nutritional value, and safety, as improper handling can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage.
Signs Bone Broth Has Gone Bad
- Sour or off smell
- Cloudy appearance or mold growth
- Unusual slimy texture
How to Store Bone Broth Properly
- Store unopened bone broth in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Once opened, refrigerate bone broth promptly at or below 40°F (4°C).
- Freeze bone broth in airtight containers or freezer bags to extend shelf life up to 12 months.
Safety Notes & Expiration Risks
Consuming spoiled bone broth can cause foodborne illness. Always discard bone broth if it shows signs of spoilage or has been stored beyond recommended times, especially after opening.
Common Questions About Bone Broth Safety
Is bone broth still safe after being left out overnight?
Bone Broth that is shelf-stable and was sealed can generally be left out overnight without safety concerns. However, if it was opened or is a perishable variety, the USDA 2-hour rule applies — discard any perishable food left in the "danger zone" (40–140°F) for more than 2 hours.
Can you eat bone broth that smells fine but is past its expiration date?
"Best by" and "sell by" dates on bone broth typically indicate peak quality, not a hard safety cutoff. If bone broth smells normal, shows no visible mold or discoloration, and has been stored properly, it is often safe shortly past the printed date. However, use your judgment and when in doubt, discard it.
Is freezer-burned bone broth safe to eat?
Freezer burn on bone broth is caused by air reaching the food's surface and causes dry, discolored patches. Freezer-burned bone broth is safe to eat — it is a quality issue, not a safety issue. The affected areas may have an off flavor or dry texture. You can trim away freezer-burned portions before cooking. To prevent freezer burn, use airtight packaging and remove as much air as possible before freezing.
What does it mean if bone broth has changed color or texture?
Minor color changes in bone broth may be natural and do not always indicate spoilage. However, significant discoloration, mold growth, unusual sliminess, or a major texture change typically means the product has degraded. If the change is accompanied by an off smell, discard the product. When only the color has shifted slightly and everything else seems normal, the product may still be usable but is past peak quality.
Pro Tips
- Cool bone broth quickly after cooking by placing the pot in an ice bath before refrigerating.
- Label containers with the date of preparation to track freshness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I keep homemade bone broth in the refrigerator?
Homemade bone broth can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Beyond this period, bacterial growth increases, so it’s best to freeze any broth you won’t use within this timeframe.
Is it safe to freeze bone broth and for how long?
Yes, bone broth freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for 6 to 12 months without significant loss of quality or safety, provided it is stored in airtight containers.
Can I leave bone broth out at room temperature?
No, bone broth should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours as this can promote bacterial growth and increase the risk of foodborne illness.