Are you a fan of beef broth?
Whether you use it as a base for soups, stews, or gravies, or simply enjoy sipping on a warm cup of broth, it’s important to know how to store it properly.
One question that often comes up is how long beef broth can sit out before it goes bad.
In this article, we’ll explore the answer to that question and provide some tips for keeping your beef broth fresh and safe to consume.
So, let’s dive in!
How Long Can Beef Broth Sit Out?
Beef broth is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can add flavor and nutrition to a variety of dishes. However, it’s important to handle and store it properly to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
So, how long can beef broth sit out before it goes bad?
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), perishable foods like beef broth should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. This is because bacteria can grow rapidly at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F, which is known as the “danger zone” for food safety.
If beef broth is left out for more than two hours, it should be discarded to avoid the risk of food poisoning. This is especially important if the broth has been exposed to high temperatures or if it has been sitting out for an extended period of time.
It’s worth noting that the two-hour rule applies to both homemade and store-bought beef broth. Even if the broth looks and smells fine, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it if it has been left out for too long.
The Importance Of Properly Storing Beef Broth
Proper storage is crucial for extending the shelf life of beef broth. If you have opened a can or carton of beef broth and have leftovers, it should be refrigerated immediately. Leftover broth should be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below.
The USDA recommends that soup or stews made with beef broth can be kept refrigerated for 3-4 days, while sauce and gravy can last for 1-2 days in the fridge. If you’re not sure if you’ll finish the leftovers within that time frame, consider freezing them for up to 2-3 months.
If you’re making homemade beef broth, it’s important to cool it down quickly before storing it in the refrigerator. One way to do this is by placing the pot of hot broth in a sink filled with ice water. Stirring the broth occasionally can also help it cool down faster.
Homemade beef broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, but it’s important to check for signs of spoilage before consuming it. If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell, it’s best to discard the broth.
To prolong the shelf life of beef broth, it can be frozen for up to three months. When freezing beef broth, make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags and leave enough room for expansion. Label and date the containers so that you know when they were frozen.
Factors That Affect The Shelf Life Of Beef Broth
There are several factors that can affect the shelf life of beef broth, including the type of broth, how it is stored, and whether it has been opened or not.
One of the most important factors is the type of beef broth. Store-bought beef broth typically has a longer shelf life than homemade broth because it is made using a hot fill technique that reduces the time the liquid is in critical temperature zones for bacteria to form. Homemade broth, on the other hand, may have a shorter shelf life because it may not be processed in the same way.
Another factor that can affect the shelf life of beef broth is how it is stored. Beef broth should always be refrigerated or frozen to keep it fresh for as long as possible. If left at room temperature, bacteria can quickly grow and cause the broth to spoil.
The length of time that beef broth can sit out also depends on whether it has been opened or not. Opened beef broth should be consumed within a few days, whereas unopened beef broth can last for several years if stored properly.
The amount of sodium in the beef broth can also affect its shelf life. Broths high in sodium tend to have a longer shelf life because salt is a natural preservative.
Finally, added seasonings and other ingredients can also affect the shelf life of beef broth. It’s important to follow proper food safety guidelines when making and storing beef broth to ensure that it stays fresh and safe to consume.
How Long Can Beef Broth Sit Out At Room Temperature?
As mentioned earlier, beef broth should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. This is because bacteria can multiply rapidly in the danger zone, which can cause foodborne illness.
If you plan to use the beef broth again later, it’s important to refrigerate it promptly. This will help to slow down the growth of bacteria and extend the shelf life of the broth.
It’s also important to note that the two-hour rule applies to beef broth that has been heated up as well. If you have reheated the broth and it has been sitting out for more than two hours, it should be discarded.
To ensure that your beef broth stays fresh and safe to consume, it’s best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help to prevent contamination and keep the broth at a safe temperature.
Signs That Your Beef Broth Has Gone Bad
While it’s important to avoid leaving beef broth out for too long, it’s also crucial to know the signs that your broth has gone bad. Here are some key indicators that your beef broth has spoiled:
1. Unusual smell: One of the easiest ways to tell if beef broth has gone bad is by smelling it. If it has an off or sour odor, it’s likely that bacteria have started to grow and the broth should be discarded.
2. Discoloration: Beef broth should be a deep brown color. If you notice any discoloration or cloudiness, it could be a sign that the broth has gone bad.
3. Mold: While white flecks in beef broth are often just fat that has separated and solidified, mold is a clear sign that the broth is no longer safe to consume. If you see any mold growth on the surface of the broth or floating in it, throw it away immediately.
4. Taste: If your beef broth smells and looks fine but tastes off or sour, it’s likely that bacteria have started to grow and the broth should be discarded.
5. Damaged packaging: If the can or box of beef broth is leaking, bulging, or rusting, assume that the broth is no longer safe to consume.
It’s important to note that if you’re unsure whether your beef broth has gone bad, it’s better to err on the side of caution and discard it. Consuming spoiled broth can lead to food poisoning and other health risks.
Tips For Keeping Your Beef Broth Fresh And Safe To Consume
While it’s important to discard beef broth that has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours, there are some tips you can follow to ensure that your beef broth stays fresh and safe to consume:
1. Store it properly: Beef broth should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer. If you’re storing it in the refrigerator, make sure it’s covered and placed on the bottom shelf where it’s coldest.
2. Use a good fitting lid: When storing your beef broth in the refrigerator or freezer, use a good fitting lid to prevent air from getting in and bacteria from growing.
3. Top up water levels if necessary: If you notice that the water levels in your beef broth have decreased, go ahead and add water to ensure that the bones remain covered. This will prevent the broth from drying out and becoming a breeding ground for bacteria.
4. Add acid: Adding acid to your beef broth can help to keep bacteria from building up and extend its use-by date in the refrigerator. You can add the juice of one whole lemon or apple cider vinegar to your broth.
5. Use pastured meat: Using good quality pastured meat with a good amount of fat can help to preserve your beef broth for up to six months without canning or freezing. The fat on top of the broth will harden and seal the broth below, eliminating any air and keeping it fresh.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your beef broth stays fresh and safe to consume for as long as possible. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out!
Conclusion: Proper Storage Is Key To Enjoying Delicious Beef Broth
Proper storage is crucial to ensuring that your beef broth stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. If you have leftover beef broth, it should be stored in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as possible to prevent bacterial growth.
According to the USDA, unopened store-bought beef broth can last in the pantry beyond its use-by date, but opened broth should be refrigerated and used within five days. Homemade beef broth can last up to four days if refrigerated properly. Frozen beef broth has a longer shelf life of up to three months.
To store your beef broth, transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag and label it with the date. If you’re freezing your broth, make sure to leave enough headspace for expansion.
When reheating your beef broth, make sure to heat it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any bacteria that may have grown during storage.
By following these simple storage guidelines, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious beef broth for weeks or even months after you’ve made it. Just remember to always prioritize food safety and discard any broth that has been left out for too long or shows signs of spoilage.
