What To Know
- Homemade tomato soup will have a shorter shelf life than canned or commercially prepared soup.
- Heat tomato soup in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Homemade tomato soup can be frozen for 6-8 months, while canned or commercially prepared tomato soup can be frozen for 1-2 years.
Tomato soup is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re making it from scratch or using canned soup, it’s important to know how long tomato soup keeps to ensure its safety and quality.
Factors Affecting Tomato Soup Shelf Life
The shelf life of tomato soup depends on several factors, including:
- Type of soup: Homemade tomato soup will have a shorter shelf life than canned or commercially prepared soup.
- Storage method: Tomato soup stored in the refrigerator will last longer than soup stored at room temperature.
- Ingredients: Soups containing dairy or meat will have a shorter shelf life than soups made with only vegetables.
- Packaging: Tomato soup packaged in airtight containers will last longer than soup stored in open containers.
Shelf Life of Tomato Soup
Homemade Tomato Soup:
- Refrigerator: 3-4 days
- Freezer: 6-8 months
Canned Tomato Soup:
- Unopened: 1-2 years
- Opened: 5-7 days in the refrigerator
Commercially Prepared Tomato Soup:
- Unopened: 1-2 years
- Opened: 5-7 days in the refrigerator
Signs of Spoiled Tomato Soup
It’s important to discard tomato soup if it shows any signs of spoilage, such as:
- Mold: Visible mold growth on the surface of the soup
- Sour smell: A sour or off-putting odor
- Taste: Tomato soup that tastes sour or bitter
- Color change: A significant change in color from the original red hue
Storage Tips for Tomato Soup
- Refrigerate immediately: Store tomato soup in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.
- Use airtight containers: Transfer soup to airtight containers to prevent spoilage and contamination.
- Thaw before reheating: If frozen, thaw tomato soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Avoid freezing canned soup: Freezing canned tomato soup can damage the can and alter the flavor.
Reheating Tomato Soup
- Stovetop: Heat tomato soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Microwave: Microwave tomato soup in a microwave-safe container on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Oven: Heat tomato soup in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Extending Tomato Soup Shelf Life
- Add acidity: Adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar can help preserve tomato soup.
- Use a vacuum sealer: Vacuum-sealing tomato soup removes air and helps prevent spoilage.
- Freeze in small portions: Freezing tomato soup in individual portions makes it easier to thaw and use as needed.
Information You Need to Know
1. Can I eat tomato soup that’s been left out overnight?
No, tomato soup left out overnight at room temperature should be discarded to prevent the growth of bacteria.
2. How long can I keep tomato soup in the freezer?
Homemade tomato soup can be frozen for 6-8 months, while canned or commercially prepared tomato soup can be frozen for 1-2 years.
3. Can I freeze tomato soup with dairy or meat?
Yes, but the shelf life will be shorter. Freeze soups containing dairy or meat for a maximum of 2-3 months.
