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How To Tell If Cottage Cheese Is Bad (Our Full FAQ)

Renee' Groskreutz
Cottage cheese is a delicious and healthy snack or recipe ingredient, but it can go bad if it is not stored properly. Here are some tips!
5 from 4 votes

Ingredients
  

  • Smell: Cottage cheese should have a mild fresh, and only slightly tangy smell. If it has a sour, pungent, or off-putting smell, it is bad and should be discarded.
  • Texture: Cottage cheese should be smooth and creamy. If it is lumpy watery (with a bad smell), or has a grainy texture, it is bad and should be discarded.
  • Color: Cottage cheese should be white or off-white in color. If it is yellow brown, or has any other discoloration, it is bad and should be discarded.
  • Mold: Cottage cheese should not have any mold on it. If you see any mold it is bad and should be discarded.

Instructions
 

If you are unsure if cottage cheese is bad, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard it.

    Here are some tips on how to store cottage cheese properly to prevent it from going bad:

    • Refrigerate cottage cheese as soon as you get home from the store.
    • Do not leave cottage cheese out at room temperature for more than two hours.
    • Store cottage cheese in an airtight container.
    • Use a clean spoon to remove each serving from the container.
    • Consume cottage cheese within seven or so days of opening, but always look for signs of spoiling (since you can’t always tell if a container was left out on the counter and put back).

    By following these tips, you can enjoy cottage cheese safely and prevent it from going bad.

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