Last Updated on October 4, 2022 by Lauren Beck
Sour Cream is a delicious dairy product that can be used in a variety of recipes. It is made from milk that has been fermented and then cream is added to it. This process gives sour cream its unique tangy flavor.
So, what does bad sour cream taste like? Bad sour cream will have a sour, unpleasant taste. The texture of the cream may also change, appearing lumpy or watery. If you see any signs of spoilage, it is best to discard the sour cream.
5 Signs your sour cream has gone bad
1. Discoloration
If you see any changes in color, it is a sign that the sour cream has gone bad. If it’s no longer white or pale yellow, then it’s time to discard it.
2. Mold Growth
Mold growth on food is never a good sign, and it will make the sour cream taste bad. The mold will also change the color of the sour cream, and you may see white, green, or black spots on the surface. If you see any mold growth on your sour cream, it’s best to throw it out.
3. Off-Flavor
Bad sour cream will also have an off-flavor that is different from the normal, tangy taste of sour cream. This off-flavor may be described as being sour, rancid, or having a chemical taste. If the sour cream has an off-flavor, it should be discarded.
4. Texture
Another indication that sour cream has gone bad is a change in texture. When sour cream goes bad, it will often become watery and runny. The consistency of the sour cream should be thick and creamy. If the texture has changed, it is an indication that the sour cream is no longer good.
5. Expiration Date
Of course, one of the easiest ways to tell if sour cream has gone bad is to check the expiration date. If the sour cream has expired, it should not be consumed.
What happens if you eat bad sour cream?
Consuming bad sour cream can cause food poisoning. The symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms can be mild or severe, depending on how much bad sour cream was consumed. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming sour cream, seek medical attention immediately.
How to fix watery sour cream?
If your sour cream is watery, there is unfortunately no way to fix it. Once the sour cream has gone bad, it cannot be salvaged.
How long does unopened sour cream last?
Unopened sour cream will last for 2-3 weeks in the fridge. Once opened, it will last for 1-2 weeks.
How to prevent sour cream spoilage?
Here are some tips to prevent your sour cream from going bad:
- Store in a cool, dry place: Sour cream should be stored in the fridge in a cool, dry place. Ideally, it should be stored at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
- Keep tightly sealed: Be sure to keep your sour cream tightly sealed when not in use. This will help to prevent spoilage.
- Use within the expiration date: Be sure to use your sour cream before the expiration date. Once opened, it should be used within 1-2 weeks.
Does sour cream go bad if left out?
Yes, sour cream will go bad if left out. If left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it should be discarded.
What Is The Shelf Life Of Sour Cream?
According to the USDA, the shelf life of sour cream is 2-3 weeks [1]. Once opened, it will last for 1-2 weeks.
Conclusion
Bad sour cream will have a sour, unpleasant taste. The texture of the cream may also change, appearing lumpy or watery. If you see any signs of spoilage, it is best to discard the sour cream. Consuming bad sour cream can cause food poisoning. The symptoms of food include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming sour cream, seek medical attention immediately.
Reference:
- https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/How-long-can-you-keep-dairy-products-like-yogurt-milk-and-cheese-in-the-refrigerator
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