USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperPackage integrity, storage conditions, and proper sealing change the answer — and those details are easy to miss.
Get a yes / no answer for your fish stock or broth or sold un un →
Last reviewed: January 2026
Reviewed by the Can I Eat Expired Editorial Team using official USDA, FDA, and CDC food safety guidance. How we assess food safety risk
This food is often safe when handled and stored properly, but safety depends on how it's been kept and whether any spoilage signs are present.
⚠️ Botulism risk increases significantly with improperly stored or damaged canned goods.
Every situation is different. Get a personalized food safety verdict for your fish stock or broth or sold un un based on the date, storage, and condition — in seconds.
👉 Check Food Safety Now

Pantry
50°F (10°C)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
365 days
Foul smell, cloudy appearance, bulging can, off taste
Use as a base for soups, stews, and risottos.
Vegetable stock, chicken broth
Every situation is different. Get a personalized food safety verdict for your fish stock or broth or sold un un based on the date, storage, and condition — in seconds.
👉 Check Food Safety NowSure thing! So, expiration dates and best quality dates can be a bit confusing, especially with products like commercially canned Fish Stock or Broth. Expiration dates are more about safety. It's the date until which the product is may be safe if properly stored to eat. Once that date passes, it's best to toss it to avoid any potential food safety issues. On the other hand, the best quality date refers to the period when the product is at its peak quality in terms of taste, texture, and aroma. After this date, the quality might start declining, but it doesn't necessarily mean it's unsafe to consume. For example, if a canned Fish Stock has an expiration date of August 2023 and a best quality date of August 2022, it means you can still eat it safely after August 2022, but the taste and flavor might not be as good as before. Personally, I would follow the expiration date for safety reasons. If it's past the best quality date but within the expiration date, I might still give it a try if it looks and smells okay. Safety first, but a little quality decline won't scare me off!
When checking if commercially canned or packaged fish stock or broth has gone bad, look for signs of bulging or dents in the packaging, a foul odor, or a change in color. Additionally, if the liquid appears cloudy or slimy, it is best to discard it.
Hey there! Let's chat about fish stock or broth that comes in commercial cans or packages and is sold unrefrigerated and unopened. While these products can be super convenient, there are some risks to be aware of. One big concern is the potential for foodborne illnesses like botulism if the packaging is compromised or if the product has been stored improperly. Symptoms to watch out for include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even more severe issues like paralysis. Yikes! To stay safe, always check the packaging for any signs of damage or leakage before using it. If the can looks bloated, rusty, or dented, it's best to play it safe and toss it out. And remember, when in doubt, throw it out! If you do decide to use canned fish stock or broth, make sure to heat it thoroughly before consuming to kill off any harmful bacteria. It's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety, right? Have you ever had a food safety scare with canned products? It's always good to share stories and tips to help each other out!
Hey there! So you've got some commercially canned or packaged fish stock or broth that doesn't need refrigeration until opened? No worries, here are some tips to keep it fresh! First off, store your unopened cans or packages in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. Make sure it's away from direct sunlight and sources of heat to maintain its quality. If you want to get a bit creative, consider using a labeled container or a storage bin to keep all your canned goods organized. This way, you can easily spot your fish stock or broth when you need it without rummaging through your pantry. Pro tip: Rotate your stock regularly by placing newer cans at the back and older ones at the front. This way, you'll use up the older ones first and prevent them from expiring. And hey, if you're like me and love a good fish stew or seafood risotto, having fish stock on hand is a game-changer! It adds so much depth of flavor to your dishes. Hope these tips help you keep your fish stock or broth fresh and ready to elevate your next culinary creation!
Hey there! Did you know that canned fish stock or broth has been around for centuries? Back in the day, sailors used to rely on canned fish broth to keep them nourished during long sea voyages. It's like a taste of history in every can! One cool thing about commercially canned fish stock is that it's a pantry staple in many cultures around the world. In Asian cuisine, fish stock is often used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces, adding a rich umami flavor. And get this – canned fish stock is a lifesaver in the kitchen! It's perfect for adding depth and complexity to dishes like risotto, paella, or seafood chowder. Plus, it's super convenient to have on hand for those days when you need a quick flavor boost. So next time you're strolling down the grocery aisle and spot a can of fish stock, grab one and get creative in the kitchen. Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite ingredient!
Once opened, commercially canned Fish Stock or Broth sold unrefrigerated should be consumed within 2-3 days if stored in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Make sure to cover the container tightly with its lid or transfer the contents to an airtight container before refrigerating.
If commercially canned Fish Stock or Broth sold unrefrigerated has been stored at room temperature for a day, it's best to discard it. Bacteria can multiply rapidly at room temperature, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Always store perishable foods like Fish Stock or Broth in the fridge as directed.
The type of container can impact the shelf life of Fish Stock or Broth. Cans are designed to maintain quality and safety for a longer period compared to jars or pouches. However, once opened, transfer any remaining Fish Stock or Broth to a different container for proper storage in the refrigerator.
Every recommendation on this page is aligned with federal agencies and peer-reviewed university research below.
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperField-to-fridge handling practices that prevent contamination of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens.
Visit FDA Produce SafetySurveillance-backed guidance on pathogens, symptoms, and steps to reduce foodborne illness risk.
Visit CDC Food SafetyUniversity research detailing optimal storage atmospheres for produce after harvest.
Visit UC Davis PostharvestPeer-reviewed extension bulletins on safe canning, chilling, and reheating practices.
Visit Penn State ExtensionNeed deeper reading? Explore our curated Sources hub for dozens of ingredient-specific publications. Our food safety review methodology explains how safety determinations are made.
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Important: These are general guidelines based on authoritative sources listed above. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out. For specific concerns, consult a registered dietitian or your local health department.