Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Chicken Gnocchi Soup expire?
Unopened canned soup can last 2-5 years, depending on the best by date printed on the can. Once opened, canned soup will only last about 7 days in the refrigerator. If the soup was homemade, you can expect it to last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Soups with meat tend to spoil faster so they are better off consumed as soon as possible. Freezing the soup can extend its life to 4-6 months, but after that, you may notice a decrease in quality and flavor.
How do you tell if Chicken Gnocchi Soup is bad?
Smell is the key factor here. Soups that have gone bad will have an off smell. It may also have a sour taste, so if you’re unsure, take a small taste. When checking visually, if you see any mold or discoloration, that is a sign that the soup has gone bad. In addition, if the soup has been sitting out for a long period of time (over 2 hours at room temperature), it's best to discard it as it may have grown bacteria that could cause food poisoning.
Tips for storing Chicken Gnocchi Soup to extend shelf life
• Always store opened soup in the refrigerator. If it was homemade, cool it down rapidly (within two hours) to prevent bacteria growth and then put in the refrigerator.
• Use airtight containers to store soup as this can prevent exposure to bacteria and keep the soup fresh for longer.
• Avoid putting hot soup directly in the refrigerator or freezer as it can raise the overall temperature and make food spoil faster. Allow it to cool slightly first.
• Freezing soup is a great option for long-term storage. Remember to leave some space in your container as the soup will expand as it freezes. To defrost, move it to the refrigerator a day or two before you plan to eat it. Or you can defrost it safely in the microwave following your microwave's guidelines for defrosting soup.