Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Mushroom Soup expire?
Unopened canned mushroom soup can last up to 2-5 years past its printed date on the package if stored properly, thanks to preservatives it consists. However, once opened, the soup should be consumed within 3-4 days if refrigerated. Homemade mushroom soup, lacking the shelf-preserving preservatives, typically lasts about 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Freezing your mushroom soup, either canned or homemade, can extend its life up to 4-6 months.
How do you tell if Mushroom Soup is bad?
The signs of a bad mushroom soup can range from subtle to obvious. If the can is bulging or leaking, that's a clear sign you should discard the product. For the soup itself, look for changes in color, consistency and smell. If it appears darker than usual, has a slimy or cloudy texture, or smells sour, rancid or just off, it's likely gone bad and should be avoided.
Tips for storing Mushroom Soup to extend shelf life
• Always refrigerate your soup after opening or cooking – never leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
• If you plan to store your soup, do it while it's still hot – this will slow down the growth of bacteria.
• Use a shallow container with a lid to store your soup. This allows it to cool quickly and evenly, reducing the risk of bacterial growth.
• If you're freezing the soup, make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as it will expand while freezing.
• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator or in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring often to prevent it from sticking and burning.