Per USDA FoodKeeper
On the counterCounter
2 hours
1 hour if above 90°F
In the fridgeFridge
3–4 days
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
2–3 months
at 0°F; quality, not safety
On the counterCounter
Use-by date
cool, dry place
In the fridgeFridge
7 days
at or below 40°F (4°C)
In the freezerFreezer
2–3 months
at 0°F; quality, not safety
Quick answer
Yes. Beef broth lasts 3–4 days in the fridge and 2–3 months in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, it spoils: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if beef broth is bad
Smell
Sour, yeasty or 'off' instead of how it smelled when cooked.
Texture
Slimy film, or liquid separating where it should not.
Colour
Dull or darkened patches, or any discoloured spots.
Mould
Any fuzzy growth — discard the whole container, not just the spot.
Beef broth past the expiration date
Unopened
FoodKeeper gives unopened beef broth 7 days in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Opened
Once opened, the printed date no longer applies. Count 3–4 days in the fridge from the day you open it.
How to keep beef broth fresh longer
- Bouillon cubes will keep their best quality 1 year. The reconstituted broth lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking (1 hour above 90°F) in shallow, airtight containers.
- Keep the fridge at or below 40°F (4°C); the door shelf is the warmest spot.
More about beef broth
FAQ
How long does it take for beef broth to go bad?
3–4 days in the fridge, per USDA FoodKeeper. At room temperature, 2 hours.
Can beef broth expire?
FoodKeeper gives unopened beef broth 7 days in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
What happens if you eat bad beef broth?
Spoiled perishable food can cause food poisoning: nausea, vomiting, cramps or diarrhoea. See a doctor if symptoms are severe or last more than a few days.
How do you keep beef broth from going bad?
Bouillon cubes will keep their best quality 1 year. The reconstituted broth lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Numbers on this page come from USDA FoodKeeper and FSIS guidance. Last verified November 2026. How we verify our data · Report a wrong number