Expiration & Storage Tips
When does chicken soup powder expire?
Chicken soup powder, when kept unopened in a cool, dry place, has a shelf life of about 18-24 months from the manufacture date. Once opened, it should ideally be used within six months for the best flavor, but it can last up to a year if stored correctly. If you freeze it, which isn’t typically necessary due to the already long shelf life, it can extend its life by another six months.
How do you tell if chicken soup powder is bad?
If stored improperly, chicken soup powder can spoil over time. It might develop an off-putting smell, a change in appearance, or even small clumps due to moisture infiltration, which can turn it into a breeding ground for bacteria. When that happens, it's best to discard it for your safety. Also, if it has a dull, less potent flavor when you make soup, that's another sign the powder has gone bad.
Tips for storing chicken soup powder to extend shelf life
• Always keep the powder in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. The pantry or a kitchen cabinet is perfect.
• Ensure the container is airtight. Once opened, moisture can make the powder clump, which might speed up the spoiling process.
• Consider transferring the powder to a glass or ceramic container with a tight seal if you plan on using it over a longer period.
• If the climate you live in is very humid, you could consider storing it in the fridge. Just make sure it is sealed tightly so that it doesn't absorb smells from other food items in the fridge.