How to Tell if Mushrooms are Bad
on Jun 30, 2022
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Mushrooms are a delicious addition to dishes but they can spoil quickly. In this post we’re taking a closer look at mushrooms, and how to tell if they’ve gone bad.
How to Tell if Mushrooms Are Bad
1. Whether They’re Wrinkled
Mushrooms have a high water content and are plump and smooth when fresh. If mushrooms have just started to wrinkle but haven’t become discolored, smelly, or slimy, they should be used immediately. If the mushrooms have a lot of wrinkles, it’s best to toss them.
2. Whether They Have Dark Spots
Mushrooms begin to develop discolored spots when they start to go bad. If the spots are very few and small in size, you should still be able to eat them. When they’re covered in dark spots, it’s best to throw them away.
3. Whether They Feel Slimy
Slimy mushrooms are a clear indication that they have spoiled. It’s best to discard them right away.
4. Whether They Feel Soft
Fresh mushrooms should feel firm and plump to the touch. If they feel spongy, soft, or soggy, they’ve likely spoiled and should be tossed.
5. Whether They Have a Strong Smell
Mushrooms that have a strong smell should not be eaten. Fresh mushrooms don’t have much of a scent at all. If the mushrooms have a strong ammonia, sour, or fishy odor, they should be thrown away.
6. Whether They’re Moldy
Mold is a tell-tale sign that mushrooms have spoiled. If you only notice mold on one or two mushrooms, it may not have spread to the entire package. Discard the moldy mushrooms, clean the other mushrooms well, and use as soon as possible.
How to Tell if Sliced Mushrooms are Bad
Sliced mushrooms tend to spoil faster than whole mushrooms. If they show any signs of spoilage as indicated above, it’s best to discard them.
How to Properly Store Mushrooms
- Mushrooms should be stored in a way that allows some air circulation without drying them out too much. Refrigerated in a paper bag that’s loosely rolled up is a good storage method. Another option is to place mushrooms in a plastic bag that’s been lined with paper towels to help absorb the moisture. Be sure to change the paper towels often if you’re not using the mushrooms right away.
- If the mushrooms were sold in a sealed plastic or cardboard container, don’t transfer them to another container. Instead, leave them sealed until ready to use.
How Long Do Mushrooms Last?
Whole mushrooms left at room temperature can last for 1-3 days. If stored in the fridge, they could last for 5-7 days. Sliced mushrooms will last for about 1 day at room temperature and 3-5 days in the fridge.
Can You Freeze Fresh Mushrooms?
Fresh raw mushrooms can be frozen but it isn’t recommended because they tend to become mushy when cooked. It’s best to cook the mushrooms first and then store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 12 months.
Can You Cook Spoiled Mushrooms?
It’s always best to discard mushrooms that are showing signs of spoilage. This will ensure that you’re not exposed to any harmful bacteria.
Do Store-Bought Mushrooms Last Longer?
Store-bought and wild-picked mushrooms generally last for the same amount of time. Always check mushrooms for spoilage before using.
How to Store Mushrooms
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh mushrooms
Instructions
- Place mushrooms in a plastic bag that’s been lined with paper towels.
- Be sure to change the paper towels often if you’re not using the mushrooms right away.
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods used.
