Can It Go Bad?

Dairy

Can Sour Cream Go Bad?

Sour cream is one of the dairy products that’s mostly used as a condiment. We use it for toppings, dips, salad dressings, and even for baking. And like with other condiments, we usually don’t finish the whole thing in one go. On the contrary, most recipes call for only a small amount of it, and the containers in which this dairy product comes are much bigger. So after you make those baked potatoes topped with sour cream or that sour cream based salad dressing, there will be leftovers. That certainly makes you think about the shelf life of opened sour cream.

Or perhaps you left the container sitting in the far corner of the fridge, covered by a bunch of other items, and you just forgot about it. I know I do that often with various products. Now that you pick it up, you notice that it has already passed the date on the label. Should you just toss it out, or maybe it makes sense to open it up and check if it’s still good? And how long, if at all, does sour cream last after the date on the label?

Those two situations are common for anyone who doesn’t use sour cream all the time. And let’s be honest, hardly anyone uses it so often that leftovers or out-of-date containers are never a problem. And when those issues arise, it’s useful to know how to go about them. Did you notice that I used “when” instead of “if”? That’s because sooner or later you will have to deal with those situations, and it’s always better to be prepared. And the best way to prepare is to learn about signs of spoilage, shelf life, and even a bit about storage of the dairy products. Interested? Read on.

Bread and sour cream
Image used under Creative Commons from luca_alex87

Can Sour Cream Go Bad? How To Tell If Sour Cream Is Bad?

All dairy products go off, and so does sour cream. But, of course, some of them last longer and keep better than others. And sour cream is one of those that don’t go bad in a matter of a few days of opening the container. Obviously, it’s nowhere near butter in terms of long-lasting, but it’s not that bad.

Before we go through signs of spoilage, let’s briefly touch upon sour cream getting watery on top. That is natural, and it’s harmless ([DA]). Just stir it in or drain the water. And next time before you put the container in storage, try to make the surface of the product smooth to reduce the separation ([DA]).

When it comes to sour cream going bad, some signs are apparent, while others not so much. When it comes to the obvious ones, if you see any signs of mold or any dark specks on the surface, toss it out. If the consistency changes noticeably, that is there isn’t only a small amount of water on top, but the whole thing basically separated, get rid of it too. For the less obvious ones, give it a good sniff to check if the smell has turned sourer than it initially was. If it did, it’s a sign the product has started spoiling, and it’s probably better to discard it. If everything up to this point seems fine, give it a taste and based on it decide if it’s good enough to use or not. In short, use your best judgment to tell whether the dairy product is still safe to eat.

Of course, if you already store the sour cream for much longer than recommended, you should toss it out even if it seems perfectly fine. And spaeking of those recommended periods, let’s talk about the shelf life of sour cream.

Condiments and dips on a table
(credit: Victoria Shes)

How Long Does Sour Cream Last?

Each container comes with a date on the label. And in most cases, it’s a “use-by” or “best-before” date. So one of the often-asked questions is how long does sour cream last after that date. In short, it’s difficult to say. The product is already acidic, so chances are it will retain quality for a week, sometimes even up to two weeks after that date. But, of course, it’s a dairy product, and if it were mishandled in storage before it got to the supermarket’s refrigerated section, it would go bad earlier, even before the date on the label. If it’s more than two weeks after that date, just get rid of it.

When it comes to an opened container, the sour cream can retain quality for up to two weeks ([DA]). Those two weeks are, of course, only for properly stored and new containers. If the sour cream is already nearing the date on the label, don’t expect it to keep well for more than a week, and if it’s passed that date, it’s best to use it within 3 days or less. Obviously, observe the product carefully for signs of spoilage before each use, especially if it’s been a few days since you’ve last used it.

Knowing that, it’s time to talk about how to keep sour cream from going bad. Or, in other words, how you should store it.

How To Store Sour Cream?

You store sour cream the same way you store other dairy products like yogurt or buttermilk. First off, keep it always refrigerated, and if it’s an option, keep it in the far corner instead of the door, where the temperature fluctuates the most. If you put it in that far corner, make a plan on how and when to use it, so it won’t get forgotten and tossed out after a few weeks.

Vegetable salad waiting for the dressing
(credit: Taylor Kiser)

Once you open the container, it’s important to keep it always sealed tightly. If it only comes with a foil seal, consider transferring it to an airtight container, especially if you expect to store it in the fridge for more than a few days. If the container is resealable, no need for any transferring.

Like with other condiments, always use clean spoons to scoop sour cream. I know that when you’re whipping up a salad, it’s more convenient to use the spoon you already have instead of reaching for a new one, but it’s important not to be lazy here. “Double dipping” is never a good idea, and that’s especially true for condiments that go bad easily, such as sour cream.

If you accidentally left sour cream out overnight, no matter if the container is unopened or not, just toss it out. The product might still be okay, but you never know, and it’s better to err on the side of caution in such a situation.

When it comes storage, there’s probably one more question that you have and I didn’t answer yet. And that question is whether or not freezing sour cream makes sense. Let’s talk about that.

Can You Freeze Sour Cream?

Producers say that you shouldn’t freeze sour cream ([DA]). Freezing affects the texture and might even change the flavor to some extent. That’s definitely true, and if that’s a possibility, it’s better to freeze the prepared dish with sour cream instead of freezing this condiment alone.

But many people make freezing sour cream work, and you can too. The trick here, and it works for many other dairy products also, is to use the frozen and thawed sour cream in a cooked or baked dish. If you add the sour cream to a soup or need it for a cake you’re making, the slightly altered consistency isn’t that big of a deal. It will be mixed with other ingredients anyway, and the difference in the taste of the prepared dish will be close to none. Feel free to try out freezing sour cream and using it in some of your dishes and see how it works. If it does, then great, if not, then you can try other recipes, or simply not freeze the product at all. At least you will know for sure.

Having said that, let’s talk about how to freeze sour cream. Since you most likely need only a small amount of the product at a time, it’s probably best to freeze it in an ice cube tray or a muffin tin. To do that, just pour the sour cream into the container of your choice and chuck it into the freezer. Once the cubes are frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and back into the freezer. Whenever you need some sour cream, just take as many cubes as you need out of the bag and use it. When it comes to thawing, it’s best to do it overnight in the fridge. Alternatively, if you need the sour cream for a soup, you can just throw in the frozen cubes directly into the pot.

In a Nutshell

  • always refrigerate
  • unopened lasts for up to a week, maybe two past the date on the label; once opened keep well for up to two weeks
  • freeze in a muffin or ice cube tray, only for cooked dishes
  • sour cream being a little watery on top is okay to eat, but if there’s a lot of water, it smells sourer than usuall, or there are any other signs of spoilage, throw it out

References

Can Parmesan Cheese Go Bad?

Can parmesan cheese go bad? Parmesan is a type of Italian hard cheese with a long shelf life! That being said, this cheese won’t last forever, it will become rancid at some point. Parmesan cheese is often sold in large quantities. This means leftovers are inevitable.

The good news is, as long as the product is stored properly, there is no need to worry about spoilage at all. If you’ve got more parmesan cheese than you can handle, always check the storage instructions to extend its shelf life. Good parmesan cheese can be quite expensive and it’ll be a shame to waste such high-quality cheese!

Image used under Creative Commons from THOR

Can Parmesan Cheese Go Bad?

Generally, hard cheeses like Parmesan cheese will keep much longer than soft cheese. Parmesan will keep fresher for longer because of the reduced level of moisture within the product. The reduced level of moisture discourages mold growth.

But even when a small area of the cheese turns moldy, the cheese is still safe to eat. Just cut away the moldy spot and store the rest of the cheese. The storage life of parmesan cheese is limited and dependent on the storage conditions. It’s also worth noting that grated parmesan cheese has a shorter shelf life than blocks of parmesan cheese.

Signs that Parmesan Cheese Has Gone Bad

To check for signs of spoilage, look for the presence of mold. If you are seeing moldy spots all over the cheese, cut the moldy bits away. It’s also important to check for any discoloration and flavor changes. If the parmesan cheese took on a weird shade of dark yellow or gray, the cheese has gone bad and is no longer safe to eat. If the cheese emits moldy or pungent odors, throw the cheese in the trash.

How to Store Parmesan Cheese?

The best way to store grated cheese and Parmesan blocks is by keeping them in the refrigerator. Parmesan wedges or blocks should have their rind. Grated Parmesan cheese doesn’t require any prep at all. Just stick the container in the fridge and you’re done.

Image used under Creative Commons from THOR

For parmesan blocks, we recommend covering the product in cling wrap or aluminum foil before storing the cheese in the fridge. The extra protection will keep fridge odors away. The wrapper will also inhibit moisture loss so the cheese won’t dry out too much while in storage.  Keep the storage temperature between 39 to 46 degrees Fahrenheit for best results. When kept in the fridge, parmesan cheese will keep fresh for a year or longer if the temperature is stable.

Can You Freeze Parmesan Cheese?

Freezing is not necessary because parmesan cheese has a long shelf life. But if you must, you can freeze the cheese. However, the freezing temperature could decrease the quality of the cheese. The parmesan cheese could lose its original texture and flavor as soon as it is thawed.

Frozen parmesan cheese is best used for cooking sauces, soups, and casseroles. To freeze the cheese, place it in a freezer-safe, airtight container. The container should be sealed at all times to protect the cheese from frost and freezing temperature.

Summary

Parmesan cheese adds depth and character to any dish, particularly salads and pasta dishes. Can parmesan cheese go bad? Yes, it could go bad at some point but this product has a long shelf life. You’ll have no trouble using up your stash especially if you are a cheese lover!

Can Powdered Milk Go Bad?

Can powdered milk go bad? Unlike fresh milk, powdered milk has a long storage life. The lack of moisture inhibits bacterial and mold growth, which could increase the risk of spoilage! This means if you have a sizable supply of powdered milk, you don’t have to worry too much about the product going bad at all. Still, you need to store powdered milk properly to extend its shelf life. If you don’t, the product could go bad much more quickly than it should.

Can Powdered Milk Go Bad?

Although powdered milk has a long shelf life, it is not impervious to spoilage at all. Just like any type of food, powdered milk will go bad at some point. That being said, the product’s shelf life will depend on the storage conditions. Always check the manufacturer’s instruction on how to store dry products like powdered milk for best results.

Image used under Creative Commons from cappi thompson

Do note that powdered milk is extremely sensitive to moisture and heat. When kept in a hot, humid spot, powdered milk will draw moisture in. This accelerates spoilage. Too much heat and moisture could increase the risk of mold growth too.

Signs that Powdered Milk has Gone Bad

It is rare for powdered milk to go bad simply because it is such a staple product. Usually, powdered milk is used up way before it spoils. Still, there are telling signs that powdered milk is no longer safe to consume. Check for slight or significant discoloration. If the product took on a deeper yellow color, discard the product. If the powdered milk has developed an unpleasant odor, discard it. If you’re seeing signs of mold growth or insects, toss the product in the trash.

How to Store Powdered Milk?

The best way to store powdered milk is to keep it in the pantry at room temperature. You can either use the product’s original packaging or transfer the product in an airtight container. Just place the container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Never store the product near sources of heat or moisture. Remember, humidity is the enemy!

When kept at room temperature, powdered milk will stay fresh for up to 2 years or more if the storage conditions are ideal. In fact, powdered milk would keep fresh for 10 years when the airtight container is kept sealed. Refrigeration is not recommended because the moisture accelerates spoilage. Always close the lid of the container tightly after every use to extend the shelf life of the product.

Image used under Creative Commons from Andrew Magill

Can You Freeze Powdered Milk?

You’d be surprised but yes, powdered milk keeps so well in the freezer. This is a terrific storage method for powdered milk that’s nearing its expiry date! Just transfer the product to an airtight container and seal the container well. Write the storage date then stick in the freezer.

The freezing temperature won’t ruin the overall flavor of the product although the powder has the tendency to clump when being defrosted. Still, you don’t have to defrost the powdered milk, just pop it in a cup of hot water and it will dissolve on its own. When kept in the freezer, powdered milk will keep for 3 to 10 years.

Summary

Storing powdered milk is as easy as can be! You can take advantage of sales and buy powdered milk in bulk. No need to worry about spoilage at all, just keep these storage tips in mind to extend the life of powdered milk.

Can Whey Protein Go Bad?

If you always buy whey protein in bulk, sooner or later one of the containers or pouches will hit its best-by date. When that happens, should you toss out the rest, or continue using it?

You already know that powdered products don’t spoil the same way meat or dairy does. And if whey powder is only a week or two past that date, it looks pretty much like it always does. There are no visible changes, the smell stays the same, and so does the taste. But as an athlete, you’re also concerned with the nutritional side of things. So you’re surely wondering if the expired protein powder is as effective as one that’s still in date.

In this article, we will go through the most common questions related to long term storage of whey protein. We will talk specifically about when and if you should discard the expired powder, and how to store it, so it lasts as long as possible.

Post Workout Nutrition
Image used under Creative Commons from Tomos

Can Whey Protein Go Bad and How To Tell If It Is Bad?

I think we can agree that it’s common knowledge that dusted food products such as whey protein don’t go off or moldy. Not on their own, at least. Even if some microbes got into the container during the packaging process, there’s very little water in there, so there’s nothing for them to feed on and grow.

So, does that mean if whey protein can’t go off? Of course not. If water gets inside the container or pouch, it will form lumps and likely grow mold within a few days. So when you notice that your protein supplement is wetter that is was before, starts to resemble wet sand, or has some big wet lumps in it, discard it. Same thing if you notice any signs of mold in the package, obviously. One thing to note here is that some whey protein supplements are most dust-like than others. Thus you shouldn’t compare consistencies of different products, because they can be slightly different, to begin with. Always check the current “wetness” of the product against how “wet” it was when you first opened the package.

One more thing we need to talk about here is quality. At a certain point, the whey protein might stop tasting as good as it used to. The flavor of the powder tends to degrade over time, and when it reaches a point that you’re no longer happy with it, toss it out.

Okay, now you know how to tell if whey protein is bad. And you see that yours is fine, but it’s after the date on the label. What should you do?

Whey Protein
Image used under Creative Commons from David van der Mark

Does Whey Protein Expire or Lose Effectiveness?

The date on the label of whey protein is there for at least two reasons. One of them is quality. Even though the product is in powdered form, it gradually degrades in quality. It’s like with spices, such as cinnamon, that over time lose some of their tastes. Same is with protein powders, especially those with very distinct flavors. That flavor gradually fades, at a certain point, it won’t be good enough anymore. Usually, the shelf life of whey protein is between a year and two years ([PN]). It all depends on the kind and amount of preservatives and flavorings used in making the supplement.

The second reason is that at a certain point the whey protein starts to slowly digest itself, so to speak. The process is called Maillard reaction ([WIKI]) and it occurs in old whey powder ([NCBI]). Actually, it sounds much worse than it really is. Basically, the sugar in the dust starts to break down the amino acid called lysine, which makes the protein “less complete.” In layman’s terms, you lose some of the nutritional value of the supplement. If you can live with that, it’s still okay to eat whey powder that’s technically “expired.” So whey protein might lose a bit of its “potency” over time, but it’s definitely not like baking powder that after a certain period is virtually useless.

When it comes to the shelf life of whey protein, opening the pouch or container doesn’t really change much. In many places, you can read that you should finish the opened container of the supplement within six months or a year. But that has more to do with storage and handling of the product, than with the product itself. So I guess it’s time to talk about how to store it, so it lasts as long as possible.

How To Store Whey Protein?

Like all powdered products, you should keep whey protein in a dry spot away from sources of heat. A dark cupboard in the kitchen or pantry is just fine. Keeping the moisture at bay is the most important thing to take care of. Once you open the package, make sure it’s always sealed tight. If it’s a resealable pouch or container, the producer took care of that for you. If not, use an airtight container. Or maybe you have one of those cereal dispensers gathering dust in the closet? You can use that too.

Now let’s talk a bit about handling the product. If you want your whey protein to retain quality for as long as possible, always use dry utensils and keep the milk or water you add the powder to away. Occasional use of a wet teaspoon probably won’t cause the substance to go moldy, but you never know. Same thing with those few drops of water when preparing the protein shake. If it happens once or twice, it’ll probably be okay. But if it becomes a regular occurrence, that powder likely won’t survive to the date on the label.

Once you’ve mixed your whey protein with the liquid of your choice, it’s best to drink it right away. If you need some liquid power to supply your workouts or a post-workout shake, it’s best to take the ingredients separately and prepare everything in the locker room. That’s especially true in the summer, as you definitely don’t want to have a prepped protein shake sit in the car when the weather is sweltering. Generally speaking, you can refrigerate a mixed protein shake for up to two days, but I’ve never heard of anyone doing that regularly or even occasionally.

In a Nutshell

  • Keep whey protein in a dry place away from heat
  • Whey gradually degrades in quality, so it might not taste that great after a few months past the date on the label
  • “Expired” whey protein might have slightly less nutritional value than one that’s in date has, but it’s generally safe to eat

References

Can Irish Cream Go Bad?

Irish cream is as much a dessert as it is a drink. This creamy, rich liqueur elevates mixed drinks, coffee and can even make a pretty delicious chocolate sauce, but how much Irish cream can you really drink in one night? Can Irish cream go bad, and how should you store the rest of the bottle?

Can Irish Cream Go Bad?

This may surprise some people, but Irish cream can actually go bad! While many liqueurs have an indefinite shelf life, Irish cream actually contains a good deal of dairy in the form of heavy cream, and will spoil accordingly. Don’t go throwing away that bottle just yet, though!

The shelf life of Irish Cream is about two years after bottling, when properly stored. The freshness of Irish cream doesn’t depend on whether or not the bottle has been opened, but the bottle should remain tightly sealed when stored. While Irish cream may not exactly spoil after the two year point, the quality will likely have declined pretty significantly. Because of this, you should always check for signs of spoilage before consuming cream liqueurs.

The two year shelf life is the recommendation of most manufacturers to ensure that the Irish cream retains its quality, though the general recommendation is to consume Irish cream within six months of purchase. Cream liqueurs are considered “young,” when they are under six months old, and this is generally when they taste the best.

Bailey's Irish Cream

Image used under Creative Commons from Ruth Hartnup

How to Store Irish Cream

Irish cream should be stored in a tightly sealed bottle, in a cool, dark place. While Irish cream can be stored at room temperature, so long as the bottle remains tightly sealed, refrigeration will certainly help to retain the quality for as long as possible.

Whether or not you choose to store Irish cream in the refrigerator, the bottle should be kept out of warm areas, or direct light exposure. If the temperature of your home is frequently above 70 degrees, you should consider storing the Irish cream in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.

Can You Freeze Irish Cream?

Contrary to popular belief, you really shouldn’t freeze Irish cream. While the alcohol will not freeze, the cream can freeze, which will make pouring the Irish cream impossible. Additionally, the freezing process will form small ice crystals, and the texture will in the cream change completely after thawing.

This doesn’t mean that Irish cream can’t be used to make ice cream! Because the churning will prevent the formation of large ice crystals, as well as keep the ice cream from separating, Irish cream can certainly be used to make a delicious, creamy dessert. Ice creams made with alcohol will melt more quickly than other ice creams, but the taste is worth it!

How to Tell When Irish Cream Has Gone Bad

The first thing you should check for, in terms of spoilage, is the smell. When you open the bottle, if the Irish cream smells at all sour or unpleasant, it has likely gone bad. Appearance will be the next indicator – any sort of separation or coagulation indicates that Irish cream has spoiled, and should not be consumed. As Irish cream starts to spoil, it may become darker and much thicker. If you notice that the Irish cream doesn’t pour well, it may not be good anymore.

Of course, if Irish cream smells and looks okay, then it’s likely still good to drink. If you’re unsure of whether or not the Irish cream has spoiled, and it has been in your cupboard for a while, you may want to err on the side of caution and discard the liqueur.

Can Hard Cheese Go Bad?

Nothing compliments a nice spaghetti dish better better than freshly grated cheese, but those cheeses always come in such big pieces. There’s no way to use the whole thing at once! Can hard cheese go bad, and how long does it last?

Can Hard Cheese Go Bad?

Like all dairy products, hard cheese can actually go bad. The spoiling process does take longer with harder cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, Gruyere, aged Gouda and parmesan, as their moisture content is a lot lower than soft cheeses. With proper storage, a piece of hard cheese can have a shelf life of up to nine months in the refrigerator.

Hard cheeses that have been grated or shredded have a far shorter shelf life, as there is more surface area exposed to the air. Properly sealed grated or shredded hard cheese will typically last for around two months in the refrigerator.

How to Store Hard Cheese

Hard cheese should be tightly wrapped and stored in the cheese drawer of your refrigerator, or at least in a location that will have constant moisture and temperature levels. The best way to wrap hard cheese is in wax paper, which will allow the cheese to breath, but protect it from too much air exposure.

Fine Microplane Grating Hard Cheese

Image used under Creative Commons from Didriks

Most of the time, cheese will come wrapped in plastic wrap. While this is easier for the retailer, and is fine for the short time that the cheese spends on store shelves, cheese should not be wrapped in plastic long term. The cheese will start to absorb the plastic, and will have an unpleasant flavor. Wrapping cheese in plastic long term also does not allow for enough air flow. You could store the cheese in a sealable container.

Grated and shredded hard cheeses should be stored in a tightly sealing container, and stored away from excess moisture. Grated and shredded cheese are particularly sensitive to humidity, and will grow mold at a faster rate.

Can You Freeze Hard Cheese?

Hard cheeses actually freeze quite well, due to their low moisture content. A properly wrapped block of hard cheese can remain in the freezer for up to six months. Wrap blocks of cheese in wax paper and then either in plastic wrap, or place them in an airtight container before freezing to eliminate exposure to the air and moisture in the freezer. Grated and shredded hard cheese should also be stored in an airtight container.

Frozen cheese may undergo some texture changes as it freezes, so serving previously frozen cheese on a cheese platter is not recommended. However, there will be little to no difference in the texture of the cheese when it’s cooked. Because of the texture changes, and the fact that hard cheese actually has a longer shelf life outside of the freezer, it should be kept in the refrigerator for as long as possible.

Hard cheese can easily be thawed overnight in the refrigerator, and should be used within a week of thawing. Refreezing thawed cheese is not recommended.

Signs That Hard Cheese Has Gone Bad

Mold is really the most noticeable form of spoilage in hard cheese. Fortunately, if a block of hard cheese has a spot of mold, it may simply be cut or scraped off, and the rest of the cheese enjoyed. However, once grated or shredded hard cheeses begin to mold, the entire container should be discarded.

When cheese is left at room temperature for too long, it may dry out and take on an oily sheen as the fat comes to the top. At this point, the cheese should no longer be consumed. Eventually, the cheese will become hard and turn rancid, and the odor may become sour. Cheese that has been in the refrigerator for too long may also dry out and become hard. If just a small piece of the cheese is hard, it can be cut off and the remaining piece enjoyed.

Can Hard Boiled Eggs Go Bad?

Everyone’s gotten a little over excited with making hard boiled eggs. You boil a dozen – or two – with the idea of making a whole bunch of egg salad, but soon realize that there is a limit to how much you can eat. What should you do with those extra hard boiled eggs? Can hard boiled eggs go bad, and how long will they keep in your fridge?

Can Hard Boiled Eggs Go Bad?

Hard boiled eggs can go bad, and actually have a surprisingly short shelf life. In fact, hard boiled eggs actually have a shorter shelf life than raw eggs that are still in the shell. This is because boiling the eggs removes the protective outer layer that coats the shell, making the shell vulnerable to air, bacteria and other contaminants.

Though boiling the eggs will make the shells more porous, that outer layer of protection still helps to keep eggs fresh longer. The shelf life of a hardboiled egg in the shell is about seven days, though once the eggs are peeled, the shelf life is only around five days. To ensure the safety of the hardboiled eggs, they should always be chilled immediately after making. Transferring the eggs from the boiling water to a bowl of ice water, and then the refrigerator can keep the temperature in a safe range.

A Sliced Hard Boiled Egg

Image used under Creative Commons from Neeta Lind

How to Tell When Hard Boiled Eggs Go Bad

The most noticeable sign that a hard boiled egg has gone bad is the odor. If the hardboiled egg has any sort of unpleasant, sulfurous or rotten smell, it has gone bad and should not be consumed. If the hard boiled egg is still in its shell, you may have to crack it open in order to notice any odor.

Many people assume that when the yolk of a hard boiled egg is gray or green, that the egg has gone bad. However, this is not the case, and the color of the yolk actually has more to do with the cooking time. Perfectly cooked hard boiled eggs will have a deep yellow to golden color, and creamy texture. The longer the egg is cooked, the paler the yolk becomes in color, until it eventually turns greenish or grayish. The texture will become increasingly chalky as the color changes.

This gray tinge is actually caused by a chemical reaction that occurs within the yolk. The egg is still safe to eat at this point, though it may have a less appealing taste and texture than eggs that were properly cooked.

Can You Freeze Hard Boiled Eggs?

While you can technically freeze hard boiled eggs, it is not really recommended as a method to preserve whole eggs. The freezing process will change the texture of the egg whites, and they can become rubbery. If you want to freeze hard boiled eggs for an egg salad, or similar dish with chopped eggs, you should freeze the eggs separately without any of the other ingredients. Mayonnaise, spices and other seasonings can be added when the eggs thaw.

Freeze the eggs by chopping them or grating them into a tightly sealing container or freezer bag. Be sure to write the date on the outside of the container, as hard boiled eggs will only last for a month in the freezer. Thaw hardboiled eggs in the container overnight and consume within two days.

Another way you can preserve hard boiled eggs for longer than a week is to pickle them. There are many easy recipes available online for pickled eggs, just be sure to use a brine recipe that is high in salt or vinegar, to prevent unwanted bacteria growth. Pickled eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four months.

Can Feta Cheese Go Bad?

Feta cheese adds such a nice salty tang to so many dishes, but sometimes you find yourself buying more than can be consumed at one meal. What should you do with that extra cheese? Can feta cheese go bad? How should you store feta to extend its shelf life? Read on to find out!

Can Feta Cheese Go Bad?

Like all cheeses, feta cheese can go bad. The shelf life of feta cheese can actually vary pretty greatly, depending on how it was packaged originally. No matter how the cheese is stored, it should always be refrigerated to prevent spoilage for as long as possible.

An unopened package of crumbled feta cheese will have a shelf life of about a week past the printed date. Once opened, crumbled feta will only last in the refrigerator around five days, regardless of the date printed on the package.

If the cheese comes in a shrink wrapped block that is not brined, an unopened package of feta will have a shelf life of about a month. Once opened, the shelf life reduces to about a week.

Brined feta will last far longer than cheese that is not stored in brine. So long as the cheese stays submerged and sealed, it will have a shelf life of up to six months. Of course, you should always check for signs of spoilage before consuming any cheese, just to be sure. Once the feta cheese has been opened, the shelf life reduces to about a month, so long as the cheese is still stored in the brine.

cubes of feta cheese

Signs That Feta Cheese Has Spoiled

Feta cheese is likely to dry out in the refrigerator. Once it becomes dry, hard and gritty, it should not be consumed. While it may still be safe to eat at this point, the texture and taste will be quite unpleasant. Therefore, crumbled feta should be discarded at this point, while you can just cut the hard part off of a block of feta.

Like all cheeses, feta cheese can mold after a while. If there are any signs of mold, the cheese should not be consumed. While you can scrape spots of mold off of harder cheeses, this is not recommended with a soft cheese like feta, as the mold spores can easily spread over the whole piece of cheese.

Smell is another good indicator of spoilage. If the cheese smells sour, or unpleasant in any way, it should not be consumed.

Storing Feta Cheese

Feta cheese can be purchased either crumbled or in blocks. Typically, the blocks will have a longer shelf life, especially if they are brined. If you have purchased a block of feta that did not come in a brining solution, you can actually extend its shelf life by making your own.

Simply dissolve ¼ cup of salt into three cups of cold water. Place the block of feta into a large, sealable container, and pour the brine solution on top until the cheese is completely covered. Tightly seal the container, and store in the refrigerator. Feta cheese should last for up to a month stored this way.

While freezing feta cheese will preserve it for up to six months, the texture and taste of the cheese may change after thawing. Because of this, using thawed feta is only recommended in dishes that will be cooked. To freeze crumbled feta, simply store the crumbles in a tightly sealed container. A block of feta can be wrapped in damp paper towels and wax paper before being placed in a tightly sealed container for freezing.

To thaw feta, place the container in the refrigerator overnight. Thawing at room temperature is not recommended. Thawed feta should not be refrozen, and should be consumed within one week.

Can Cream Cheese Go Bad?

Cream cheese is a staple breakfast item in many households, as well as a pretty common baking ingredient. Of course, if you don’t use it every day, you may find a package of cream cheese in the back of your refrigerator, and have no idea when you bought it, or if it’s even still good to eat! Can cream cheese go bad? How could you tell if cream cheese has spoiled? Read on to find out!

Can Cream Cheese Go Bad?

Like all dairy products, cream cheese can eventually go bad. Typically, softer cheeses will spoil faster than their harder counterparts because of the moisture content. On average, unopened cream cheese will last for about a month past the expiration date, so long as it remains refrigerated.

Once cream cheese is opened, it will last for another two to four weeks in the refrigerator before beginning to spoil. Of course, the shelf life is highly dependent on processing methods. Some containers of cream cheese are heat processed to remain fresh for up to six months in the refrigerator, and some packaged cream cheeses will even remain shelf stable for months at a time before opening! Before assuming your cream cheese has spoiled, it’s worth checking the packaging to see if it has been processed for a longer shelf life.

Unless cream cheese has been specially processed to be room temperature stable, it should always be refrigerated to prevent harmful bacteria growth.

Whole Wheat Bagel, Cream Cheese and Orange Juice

Image used under Creative Commons from Justin Smith

How To Tell If Cream Cheese Has Gone Bad

A quick visual assessment should usually tell you if cream cheese has spoiled. If there is mold growing on the cream cheese, this is a sign that it has gone bad, and should not be consumed. While it’s typically okay to simply remove the spots of mold from harder cheeses, this is not the case with softer cheeses like cream cheese. Cheese molds can develop toxins which can easily permeate a soft cheese, and are not safe to eat.

Another sign of spoilage is that older cream cheese will dry out, becoming hard, waxy and yellowish in appearance. While it’s not necessarily harmful to consume cheese that has dried out like this, it’s certainly not pleasant. You can cut off the dried out part, and as long as the rest of the cheese looks and smells fine, it should be good to use!

Cracks and separation can also indicate whether cream cheese has spoiled. Fresh cream cheese is smooth and uniform in appearance. As it ages, cream cheese will dry out, form cracks on the surface, and begin to separate. If you notice pools of liquid in your cream cheese, and a dried out surface, the cheese has definitely begun to spoil and should not be consumed.

Smell is another good indicator of spoilage. Cream cheese will already smell a bit tangy, but if you notice a moldy, or sour smell, you should consider discarding the cream cheese.

Can You Freeze Cream Cheese?

Cream cheese can be frozen with some success. Because the texture will become crumbly, previously frozen cream cheese should be saved for dishes where it will be cooked. Once thawed, the cheese will likely no longer spread on a bagel, and may be slightly unpleasant tasting until heated thoroughly.

To freeze cream cheese, make sure it’s tightly wrapped so that no air may come in contact with the cheese. This is necessary to ensure that the cream cheese neither dries out, nor takes on any flavors which may have collected in the refrigerator.

Because the freezer will dry out cream cheese over time, it’s recommended that cream cheese be frozen for no more than two months. Cream cheese can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator, and then used for cooking or baking.

Can Condensed Milk Go Bad?

Condensed milk started as a way for sailors to preserve the unstable dairy product for days at sea, but now finds itself as a staple ingredient in many delicious baking recipes. While that fudge recipe may be out of this world, it does only use half a can of condensed milk. So, what do you do with the rest? Can condensed milk go bad?

What Exactly is Condensed Milk?

Condensed milk is simply cow’s milk that has been reduced on high heat, which not only eliminates pathogens, but also helps to stabilize the milk. Condensed milk is almost always found in its sweetened form, in which sugar has been adding during the heating process, leaving a very thick, sweet syrup that is often used in desserts.

Condensed milk is most often packaged in a can, but can be found in a tube as well. Most condensed milk available today is sweetened, and unsweetened condensed milk is actually incredibly difficult to find.

Can Condensed Milk Go Bad?

Like all dairy products, condensed milk (sweetened and unsweetened) can go bad. Because of the sugar, the shelf life of sweetened condensed milk is a bit longer than that of its unsweetened counterpart.

A Vintage Ad for Sweetened Condensed Milk

While still in the can, condensed milk will have a shelf life of about a year past the printed expiration date. Once opened, the shelf life is drastically reduced. Sweetened condensed milk will last for about two to three weeks in the refrigerator, while unsweetened condensed milk will only last for about two weeks.

How to Tell Condensed Milk Has Gone Bad?

To tell if condensed milk has gone bad, the easiest way is to check for any visual changes. Condensed milk is typically a pale creamy color, but will darken and become more yellow over time. The milk will also become quite thick. Condensed milk is typically thick, but can still be poured. If you can no longer pour the condensed milk, it has likely spoiled and should not be consumed.

Smell is another indicator of spoilage. Condensed milk typically has a sweet, creamy smell. If the milk begins to smell sour or unpleasant, this is a sure sign of spoilage. Another sure sign is mold growth. This is likely to happen if the condensed milk is not properly stored. As soon as there are any signs of mold, the condensed milk should not be consumed.

If there is any sign of bulging or swelling of the can, or if rust or large dents are present, you will want to discard the can and should not eat the condensed milk.

How to Store Condensed Milk

Unopened condensed milk can simply be stored in your pantry, or in another cool, dry location. Like with all canned products, keeping the can out of heat, light and wet environments will ensure that the condensed milk lasts as long as possible.

Once the container has been opened, refrigeration is necessary. Be sure to transfer the condensed milk to an airtight container, as an open container is likely to start molding. Storing an opened can of condensed milk at room temperature is not at all recommended, as this is a sure way to grow mold.

Because the shelf life of opened condensed milk is only three weeks in refrigeration, freezing is actually quite a good option. Condensed milk should be frozen in an airtight container, and will not actually freeze solid because of the sugar content. You can thaw frozen condensed milk overnight in the refrigerator, and then use as directed. Alternatively, warming the condensed milk in a water bath will help to thaw it. Condensed milk can be frozen for up to three months without any noticeable flavor or texture changes, so long as the container is tightly sealed. Whisk the milk if there is any separation, and note that thawed condensed milk should not be re-frozen.