Is it safe to drink chicken broth from the box? Your ultimate guide to nutrition diet and food safety

October 12, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the USDA, an opened box of chicken broth should be refrigerated and consumed within 4 to 5 days. This is a key fact for answering the question: Is it safe to drink chicken broth from the box? The safety depends on proper handling, checking ingredients, and understanding storage guidelines for a healthy nutrition diet.

Quick Summary

Packaged chicken broth is generally safe to consume, thanks to commercial sterilization and packaging. Its safety hinges on following proper handling procedures, including checking for package integrity, observing expiration dates, and refrigerating promptly after opening to minimize foodborne illness risks.

Key Points

Unopened is Safe: Unopened boxed chicken broth is shelf-stable and safe to drink for an extended period, provided the carton is undamaged and within its 'best by' date.
Refrigerate After Opening: Once opened, broth becomes perishable and must be refrigerated, typically lasting only 4 to 5 days.
Beware of High Sodium: Many boxed broths are high in sodium, so it's advisable to choose low-sodium or unsalted varieties to manage your intake.
Check for Additives: Look for common additives like yeast extract (a form of MSG) and 'natural flavors' if you have sensitivities or prefer a cleaner ingredient profile.
Prioritize Homemade for Nutrition: While boxed broth is convenient and hydrating, homemade broth from simmered bones and vegetables offers superior nutritional value, including higher collagen and minerals.
Inspect the Box: Always check for any signs of damage like leaks, bulges, or dents before purchasing or opening, as this indicates a compromised seal.

Understanding the Convenience of Boxed Broth

Boxed chicken broth has become a kitchen staple, lauded for its convenience and long shelf life. For many home cooks, it provides a time-saving alternative to making broth from scratch. Its shelf-stable nature, achieved through commercial sterilization and aseptic packaging, means an unopened carton can last for months, sometimes up to a year past the printed date, when stored in a cool, dry pantry. While this convenience is a major draw, it prompts important questions about ingredient quality and safety, particularly for those who drink broth as a warm beverage.

Is Unopened Boxed Broth Safe to Drink?

An unopened, properly stored box of chicken broth is safe for consumption, according to food safety guidelines. The packaging process is designed to eliminate microorganisms that cause spoilage, ensuring a long shelf life. However, it is crucial to inspect the box before opening. Any damage to the carton, such as bulging, leaks, or dents, could compromise the sterile seal and allow bacteria to enter. In such cases, the product should be discarded to avoid potential foodborne illness.

The Importance of 'Best By' Dates

The 'best by' or 'sell by' date on the packaging indicates the manufacturer's recommendation for peak quality. While the broth may still be safe shortly after this date, its flavor and quality may begin to decline. For best results, it's always wise to consume it before the printed date.

Handling Opened Boxed Broth

Once you break the seal on a carton of chicken broth, the rules of food safety change dramatically. The product is no longer sterile and must be treated like any perishable food item. Prompt and proper refrigeration is the most critical step to ensure its safety.

Refrigerate Immediately: After opening, store the broth in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).
Observe the Shelf Life: The USDA advises that opened broth is typically good for only 4 to 5 days when properly refrigerated.
Watch for Spoilage: If the broth develops an off smell, looks cloudy, or shows any signs of mold, it must be thrown out, regardless of how long it has been open. Some foodborne pathogens do not affect the taste or smell, making it crucial to adhere to the refrigeration timeline.

Nutritional Considerations: Boxed vs. Homemade

While convenience is a strong point for boxed broth, it often comes with nutritional trade-offs compared to homemade versions. Making a homemade broth from bones and vegetables allows for complete control over ingredients and sodium content.


Feature	Boxed Chicken Broth (Typical)	Homemade Chicken Broth
Sodium Content	Often very high, though low-sodium options are available.	Controlled completely by the cook. Can be very low or salt-free.
Flavor Profile	Generally less complex; can be flat or excessively salty.	Rich, deep, and nuanced flavor developed over a long simmer.
Additives	May contain yeast extract (a form of MSG), 'natural flavors,' and other preservatives.	All-natural ingredients, typically just chicken, vegetables, and herbs.
Gelatin/Collagen	Minimal to no gelatin/collagen content due to shorter simmering times.	High gelatin/collagen content, beneficial for joints and gut health.
Nutrient Density	Can contain essential vitamins and minerals but often less dense than homemade.	Often richer in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.

Navigating Additives and High Sodium

When choosing a boxed broth for drinking, reading the ingredient list is critical. Many manufacturers add flavor enhancers and preservatives. Common additives include 'natural flavors,' which can contain hidden MSG, and yeast extract, another source of free glutamate. For individuals with sensitivities to MSG, checking for these ingredients is vital.

Most regular boxed broths contain a high amount of sodium, with some servings providing a significant percentage of the daily recommended intake. While some people enjoy the salty flavor, excessive sodium intake is linked to elevated blood pressure and other health concerns, especially for those with specific health conditions. Opting for a low-sodium or unsalted version allows you to control the seasoning yourself.

How to Drink Boxed Broth Safely and Enjoyably

For those who like to sip broth as a warm, comforting beverage, here are a few tips to enhance the experience while prioritizing safety:

Heat it up: While broth is safe to drink cold after opening and refrigerating, many people prefer it warm for both comfort and flavor. Heating also offers an extra layer of safety.
Check the packaging: Always do a quick visual inspection of the box for any signs of damage before purchasing or using.
Taste test for freshness: If an opened box of broth is nearing its expiration or has been in the fridge for a few days, perform a 'sense test' to ensure it still tastes and smells fresh.
Choose high-quality options: Some brands prioritize a more natural, less-processed product. Look for options labeled 'organic' or 'low-sodium' with simple, recognizable ingredients.

The Health Benefits of Broth (and their Limits)

Chicken broth offers several health benefits, particularly when recovering from illness. It is hydrating, can soothe a sore throat, and provides electrolytes and nutrients. However, it's important to set realistic expectations for boxed broth specifically. While homemade, long-simmered bone broths are touted for high collagen and mineral content, the commercial processing of boxed broth often reduces this nutrient density. As a result, boxed broth is best viewed as a simple, hydrating liquid rather than a potent health supplement.

Conclusion

In summary, the answer to "Is it safe to drink chicken broth from the box?" is a qualified yes. Unopened cartons are safe due to commercial sterilization. The primary safety concerns arise after opening, requiring prompt refrigeration and consumption within a short timeframe to prevent bacterial growth. From a nutritional standpoint, packaged broth is a convenient but often high-sodium option that can contain additives, lacking the deeper nutritional benefits of homemade broth. By being an informed consumer, checking ingredient lists, and practicing safe storage, you can safely enjoy this pantry staple as part of your diet. For those seeking the highest nutritional value, making your own broth from scratch remains the optimal choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is possible to get food poisoning from boxed chicken broth, but only if it has been improperly handled. This typically occurs after the carton has been opened and left unrefrigerated, allowing for bacterial growth. Following the 'refrigerate within 4-5 days' rule is crucial.

You can use your senses to check for spoilage. If the broth smells sour, tastes off, or appears cloudy, it has likely gone bad and should be discarded. However, some pathogens don't alter taste or smell, so it's best to follow proper storage guidelines.

Yes, it is safe to drink refrigerated chicken broth cold. While many people prefer to heat it for flavor and comfort, there is no safety reason it cannot be consumed cold after opening, as long as it has been properly stored in the refrigerator.

After opening, boxed chicken broth has a limited shelf life. The US Department of Agriculture advises that it should be kept refrigerated and used within 4 to 5 days.

Some boxed broths can contain high amounts of sodium and may include additives like yeast extract or 'natural flavors,' which can concern some consumers. Choosing low-sodium or organic options with simple ingredient lists can mitigate these concerns.

Yes, you can safely freeze leftover chicken broth. Pour it into an airtight container, freezer-safe bags, or ice cube trays for easy portioning later. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

While boxed broth offers hydration and some nutrients, it typically has a lower nutrient density and lacks the high levels of collagen and amino acids found in long-simmered homemade bone broth. For optimal nutritional benefits, homemade is preferred.