Is expired broth safe to drink?
Quick Answer
No
Expired broth, especially if it has been opened, is not safe to drink. It can cause food poisoning, stomach infection, and other health problems.
What Is It?
Broth is a savory liquid made of water in which bones, meat, or vegetables have been simmered. It can be eaten alone, but it is most commonly used to prepare other dishes such as soups, gravies, and sauces.
How to Tell
Signs of spoiled broth include a sour smell, a cloudy appearance, or mold growth. If the broth is canned and the can is bulging, it’s a clear sign that it’s spoiled and unsafe to consume.
Why It Can Be Risky
Consuming expired broth can lead to several health risks.
- food_poisoning
- stomach_infection
- other_health_problems
Safe Method?
Always check the expiration date before using broth. If it’s past the expiration date, or if it shows signs of spoilage, it’s best to discard it.
Can You Just Cut It Off?
If the broth has been opened and stored in the refrigerator, it’s generally safe to use within 4-5 days. After this, it should be discarded.
Safe Alternatives
If you don’t have fresh broth, consider using bouillon cubes or granules, or a broth concentrate. These products have a longer shelf life and can be a good alternative.
Storage Tips
{‘unopened_broth’: ‘Unopened broth can be stored in a cool, dark place like a pantry.’, ‘opened_broth’: ‘Once opened, broth should be stored in the refrigerator and used within 4-5 days.’}