Goat cheese is a delicious dairy product that can be used in many different recipes. However, it’s important to know, “How to tell if goat cheese has gone bad” so you don’t get sick!
Most people who buy goat cheese are not sure how to tell when the cheese has gone bad. This can be really frustrating because nobody wants to throw away good food!
There are many different ways to determine whether or not your cheese is still good to eat, but we’re going to focus on three simple tests that will help you decide quickly and easily.
The first test involves checking the texture while the second one deals with smell. The last test is tasting the cheese but only if the first two test fails.
Let’s see how to do each of these tests.
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How to Tell if Goat Cheese Has Gone Bad?
If your cheese has turned yellowish or brownish, mold, black spots, and a slimy texture then it is no longer safe to eat. Moreover, if the cheese smells bad and tastes sour or has an unpleasant aftertaste, it is likely to be rotten.
1. The Texture Test
This test is the best way to tell whether or not your cheese has gone bad. You should always use this process before moving on to the next one, regardless of what you find out.
The first thing you’re going to want to do is to examine the color of the cheese. If it has turned yellowish or brownish, it has gone bad.
Secondly, check for mold. It should not be white or blue but rather a golden-yellow color. If you notice any black spots on the cheese, it may have begun to rot and is no longer safe to eat!
The next thing you want to do is check the texture. If the cheese feels slimy or rubbery, it has gone bad.
2. The Smell Test
This test is not quite as reliable as the texture test. It can be helpful in determining whether or not your cheese has gone bad, but it’s best to use this process if you don’t have anything else available.
What you want to do is take a good whiff of the cheese. If it smells particularly pungent, it has gone bad. If it has a moldy or sour smell, that’s also a bad sign.
3. Taste (Only if needed!)
If still in doubt, take a small piece of the cheese and taste it. If it tastes sour or has an unpleasant aftertaste, it has gone bad.
That’s all there is to it! Remember that goat cheese can last up to a week or two after the expiration date but it will only get worse over time. Don’t risk getting sick!
How Long Does Goat Cheese Last?
When properly stored, a package of goat cheese has a shelf life of 7 to 10 days. Unopened packages have a use-by date, which is calculated from the date they were packed and sealed at the factory.
Once opened, goat cheese will last about a week or two in the fridge. If you want to freeze it, you can do so for up to two months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
How To Store Your Goat Cheese
Here are some other tips on how long you can keep goat cheese before it goes bad:
Before opening, store the cheese at a temperature below 40°F in your refrigerator’s coldest area or on a very cool, dry shelf near the back. This will help prevent any bacteria from growing and prolong its freshness.
After opening the package, use it within a week. Once opened, wrap the remaining portions tightly and cover with foil or plastic wrap to keep them airtight.
If goat cheese smells sour, has an off-color, or feels slimy, it has likely gone bad and should not be eaten. Discard any questionable-looking cheese immediately. If you are unsure whether or not goat cheese is still good to eat, it’s best to discard it to be safe.
Related: Best Romano Cheese and Parmesan Cheese Substitutes
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article has helped you learn how to tell if goat cheese has gone bad. The three different tests are easy enough for anyone to do in their own home. Let us know if you have any questions in the comments below!
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