Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Bean Soup expire?
Once prepared, bean soup should be consumed within 3-4 days if stored in the refrigerator. If left at room temperature, the soup should be consumed within 2 hours. Always ensure to put it in the fridge if you intend to consume it later. If you decide to freeze your soup for later use, it can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. It might lose a bit of its flavor beyond that time, but will remain safe for consumption.
How do you tell if Bean Soup is bad?
Beware of any mold or unusual colors or smells coming from the soup. Big changes in the texture of the soup might also indicate spoilage. If the soup has become too thick or there are signs of discoloration, it might be time to discard it. A sour or off smell is a definite sign to throw it out. Any swollen or leaky cans of soup should also be discarded as they can indicate a dangerous bacteria called clostridium botulinum, which can cause botulism.
Tips for storing Bean Soup to extend shelf life
• Cool soup quickly before placing in the refrigerator. A large pot of soup can take a long time to cool, creating an environment for bacteria to grow.
• Use smaller containers to store soup. This allows the soup to cool quickly and evenly.
• Keep the refrigerator temperature below 40°F. This keeps the soup at a safe temperature to prevent the growth of bacteria.
• If freezing, leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Always use a clean spoon when serving to avoid introducing bacteria.
• When reheating, make sure the soup reaches a temperature of at least 165°F to kill any potentially harmful bacteria.