Expiration & Storage Tips
When does turkey broth expire?
Once prepared, homemade turkey broth can last for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. If you bought a store-bought version that has not been opened, it typically maintains its quality until the expiration date indicated on the packaging. Once opened, it should be consumed within 14 days for best quality. However, turkey broth can also be frozen, greatly extending its shelf life to 4 to 6 months. Always remember to leave enough headspace in the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
How do you tell if turkey broth is bad?
It's important to check your turkey broth for spoilage before using it in your dishes. Bad turkey broth will develop an off smell, which could be sour, pungent or somewhat like rotten eggs. The broth might also appear cloudy or have a slimy texture. Mold may form on the surface if the broth has been stored improperly or for too long. These are all signs that your broth has gone bad and it should not be consumed.
Tips for storing turkey broth to extend shelf life
• Store your turkey broth in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. This keeps out moisture and other contaminants.
• If you plan to use your broth soon, keep it in the refrigerator. Otherwise, the freezer is your friend for long-term storage.
• If freezing, consider portioning the broth into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the broth cubes into a freezer bag. This makes it easy to utilize small amounts when needed.
• It's always a good idea to label your containers or bags with the date, so you know when to use them by.
• Upon thawing frozen broth, do so in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature to maintain its quality and safety.