How Long Does Bone Broth Powder Last? Shelf Life and Storage
How long does bone broth powder last once it's open? Why has it gone clumpy? And what does best before really mean? Everything you need to know.
In this guide
You've found a pouch of bone broth at the back of the cupboard. It's been open for a while. Is it still OK?
Powders are one of the most forgiving foods in your kitchen, because there's very little water in them for anything to grow in. But how you store them makes a big difference to how they taste and how easy they are to use.
Best before vs use by
In the UK, food carries one of two dates:
- Use by is about safety. It's used on foods that go off quickly, such as fresh meat and ready meals. Don't eat food after this date.
- Best before is about quality: flavour, texture and appearance. Dried foods like bone broth powder carry a best before date.
Always check the date on your pouch and follow the storage instructions on the pack, because the date only holds if the product has been stored the way the label says.
How to store bone broth powder
- Keep it sealed. Press out the air and close the zip properly after every use.
- Keep it cool and dry. A cupboard away from the oven, kettle and dishwasher is ideal.
- Keep it out of direct sunlight. Heat and light can dull flavour over time.
- Don't refrigerate it. Fridges are humid, and taking a cold pouch in and out creates condensation.
The number one mistake: a wet spoon
Ask yourself honestly: have you ever dipped a damp spoon straight back into the pouch? Most of us have. It's the main reason powder goes hard and clumpy.
Moisture is a powder's enemy. Even steam from a freshly boiled kettle can creep in if you hold the pouch over your mug. Use a dry spoon, scoop away from the kettle, and seal the pouch before you pour the water.
My powder has gone clumpy. Is it ruined?
Usually not. Clumping is often just a sign that a little moisture has got in. If it's within its date, smells as it should and shows no signs of mould or discolouration, you can break the clumps up with a dry fork and carry on.
If it smells off, looks discoloured, has visible mould or has become damp and sticky, throw it away. When in doubt, leave it out.
Once you've made it up
Made-up broth is a different story. Once you've added water, treat it like any cooked liquid:
- Cool leftovers quickly and put them in the fridge.
- Use within a couple of days.
- Freeze it in an ice cube tray if you won't get through it, then drop cubes into sauces as you need them.
How to avoid clumps in your mug
Clumps in the mug are a different problem, but just as annoying. Here's the trick: add the powder to a splash of warm water first and stir it into a smooth paste, then top up with the rest of your hot water. It works for coffee too.
Questions people ask
How long does bone broth powder last once opened?
Stored sealed in a cool, dry cupboard, it should stay good until the best before date on the pouch. Use a dry spoon every time.
Can I freeze bone broth powder?
There's no need, and freezing can introduce moisture. A cool, dry cupboard is best.
Can I store made-up broth in the fridge?
Yes. Cool it quickly, cover it, and use it within a couple of days, or freeze it in portions.
Stock up and save
Because a pouch keeps well in the cupboard, it's easy to stock up. Each pouch contains 30 servings, and you save up to 15% when you mix and match. Pure Beef and Beef Marrow are our most popular pair.
