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How long does homemade soup last?
Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines
Refrigerator
4 days
3–4 days
Freezer
6 months
6 months
The short answer
Homemade Soup lasts as long as you store it correctly — which can mean anywhere from a few days on the counter to a year in the freezer. The numbers above represent best quality per USDA and FDA guidelines, not absolute safety limits.
Why these numbers vary
Cooked soup or broth. Storage life depends on temperature consistency, humidity, packaging, and how fresh it was when you got it. Refrigerators that swing between 38°F and 45°F shave days off these numbers; vacuum-sealing or freezing extends them.
How to tell if homemade soup is bad
- Bubbling without heat (fermenting)
- Off smell
- Mold on surface
- Slimy texture
Storage tips
- Cool before refrigerating
- Cream-based: 3 days max
- Freeze in portion-size containers
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Frequently asked questions
How long does homemade soup last in the refrigerator?
Homemade Soup lasts 4 days in the refrigerator. 3–4 days
How long does homemade soup last in the freezer?
Homemade Soup lasts 6 months in the freezer. 6 months
How can you tell if homemade soup is bad?
Watch for: Bubbling without heat (fermenting); Off smell; Mold on surface.