How Long Does Vegetable Broth (Opened) Last?
Opened container of vegetable broth or stock, store-bought or homemade.
The Short Answer
Vegetable Broth (Opened) lasts 4–5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly at 40°F or below. For longer storage, vegetable broth (opened) can be frozen for 4–6 months while maintaining good quality. These times are based on USDA food safety guidelines and assume proper storage conditions.
Storage Times at a Glance
Source: USDA FoodKeeper | Last verified: March 26, 2026 | Our methodology
Vegetable broth follows the same rules as any opened broth: 4-5 days in the fridge, months in the freezer. If you make homemade vegetable broth from kitchen scraps, freeze it immediately after straining and cooling for the longest shelf life.
How to Store Vegetable Broth (Opened)
Same guidelines as beef and chicken broth. Refrigerate in a sealed container within 2 hours of opening. Use within 4-5 days. Freeze in portions for longer storage. Homemade vegetable broth may have a shorter refrigerator life than commercial.
How to Tell if Vegetable Broth (Opened) Has Gone Bad
Look for these signs that vegetable broth (opened) has spoiled: sour or off smell, mold, cloudy with unpleasant odor, slimy texture, bubbling
The Professor's rule: When in doubt, throw it out. No meal is worth food poisoning.
The Bottom Line
Properly stored vegetable broth (opened) stays safe for 4–5 days in the fridge. Always store in airtight containers, refrigerate within 2 hours of purchase or preparation, and trust your senses. If something looks, smells, or feels off, discard it regardless of how many days it has been. Freezing is always an option if you will not use it within the refrigerator window.
Frequently Asked Questions
If unopened, commercial vegetable broth is often safe well past the best-by date. Look at the container: if it is not swollen, leaking, or damaged, it is likely fine. Smell it after opening. If it smells and looks normal, it is safe to use.