Hummus is an excellent condiment or spreads that is packed with numerous beneficial micronutrients. It is a nutritious, creamy, delectable spread, scooped up with vegetables, topped with salad, or spread on toast. Whether you make Hummus at home or buy it from a store, you should know it has a short shelf life. And knowing the life of store-bought Hummus is obvious through use by date, how to know this of homemade Hummus. How to know if Hummus is bad?
To determine if Hummus has gone bad, check for an acidic or rancid odor, graininess or separation of liquids, fungal growth, and odd flavors. If the item was purchased from a store, the expiration date is a clear indicator. In addition, proper storage and management can prevent Hummus from spoiling.
Let’s get to know more about Hummus and how to extend its life.
Does Hummus Go Bad?
Yes, Hummus can spoil. Like any other food product, Hummus has a limited shelf life and can degrade or become harmful to eat if not properly kept or consumed within a set duration. Therefore, before eating Hummus, make sure to check the expiration date and search for symptoms of deterioration.
It’s ideal to consume Hummus within a few days of opening it; appropriate storage can help extend its shelf life. In addition, refrigerating and carefully sealing Hummus can help keep it fresh by preventing germs and air from getting in.
Additionally, scooping up Hummus with a clean spoon each time can help minimize cross-contamination and spoiling.
How Long Does Homemade Hummus Last Refrigerated?
Typically, homemade Hummus can be refrigerated for up to 5 days when stored appropriately in an opaque container. However, the precise shelf life can vary depending on the freshness of the components, how well the Hummus was blended, the temperature and humidity of the refrigerator, and other variables.
Before ingesting homemade Hummus that has been refrigerated for several days, it is essential to check for signs of spoilage, such as a sour odor, fungal growth, and an off flavor. If unsure, dispose of the food to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
How Long Does Hummus Last Unopened?
The shelf life of fresh Hummus depends on things like the brand, how it was stored, and what kind of additives were used. Most store-bought Hummus can be kept in the fridge for up to 1-2 weeks after the “best by” or expiration date if it hasn’t been opened. But it’s important to read the package to find out how to store it and how long it will last.
It’s important to remember that the “best by” date on the hummus pack doesn’t mean it’s safe to eat. Instead, it’s a tip for when the Hummus will be at its best. Even if the Hummus is still within its recommended shelf life, it’s best to throw it away if it smells funny or has mold on it.
How to Know If Hummus Is Bad?
There are multiple indications that Hummus has gone rancid. Here are some items to keep an eye out for:
- Smell: The aroma of Hummus should be mild and savory. If it smells acidic or putrid, it has likely spoiled. This may be due to the development of bacteria or yeast or the oxidation of the hummus’ lipids.
- Texture: The texture of Hummus should be silky and velvety, with no separation or graininess. It may be spoiled if you observe the separation of liquids, such as a layer of water on the surface, or if the Hummus has a granular or coarse texture. In addition, the presence of an oily residue on the surface may indicate spoilage.
- Appearance: Mold development is a sure sign that the Hummus has gone bad. It might show on the surface of the Hummus as black, blue, or green dots. If you notice any mold, throw out the Hummus right away since it might cause food illness.
- Taste: Hummus may have gone bad if it tastes weird or has a peculiar or bitter flavor. Furthermore, ingesting rotten Hummus can cause stomach pain or food illness, so throw it out if you have any questions about its safety.
How To Properly Store And Extend the Life Of Hummus?
The key to extending the expiration life of Hummus is proper stowage. Here are some guidelines for storing Hummus effectively and extending its shelf life:
- Store in an airtight container: Transfer the humus to a hermetic container once it has been opened. This will prevent the humus from drying out and keep out any potential spoilage-causing contaminants.
- Keep refrigerated: Hummus should always be preserved in the refrigerator. The optimal temperature range is between 35 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit (2-4 degrees Celsius). The Hummus should be discarded if left at room temperature for more than two hours.
- Stir before serving: If the humus has been refrigerated for an extended period of time, the oils may separate from the remaining components. Before serving, give it a thorough stir to ensure that it is thoroughly combined and velvety.
- Use clean utensils: Always use spotless implements to prevent contamination when serving Hummus.
- Don’t double dip: Avoid submerging twice or using the same spoon or utensil to consume Hummus. This may introduce microorganisms into the container, causing it to deteriorate.
- Freeze for longer storage: Hummus can be chilled to extend its shelf life. Freeze for up to three months in a secure container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Bottom Line
This was all about how to know if Hummus is bad. Check the expiration date and scent for an acidic or rancid odor, look for graininess or separation of liquids, inspect for mold growth, and taste for any off or unusual flavors to determine if Hummus has gone bad. Proper storage and management can prevent food from spoiling.
We hope you found this article helpful & informative. Thank you for reading!