How Long Does Tofu Last? [Answered]
Tofu is a staple in many vegan and vegetarian diets, but how long does tofu last? Here’s a look at the shelf life of tofu and how to tell if it has gone bad. Tofu is made from soybeans that have been curdled and pressed into blocks. It is a high-protein food that is low in calories and cholesterol. If we talk about the ingredients of tofu, it mainly contains soybeans and water.
Tofu is a very versatile food and can be used in various recipes. It can be eaten plain or added to soups, stir-fries, and salads. Tofu can also be grilled, baked, or fried.
How long does tofu last?
| Tofu | Counter | Refrigerator |
| Shelf-stable tofu (unopened) | Best-by + 1 – 2 weeks | |
| Shelf-stable tofu (opened) | 4 – 5 days | |
| Refrigerated tofu (unopened) | Use-by + 3 – 7 days | |
| Refrigerated tofu (opened) | 4 days | |
| Cooked Tofu | 4 days |
If you ask about an opened tofu, it can last for 4-5 days in the fridge. The shelf life of unopened tofu is from 6 months to 1 year.
The reason for the short shelf life of opened tofu is that it has been exposed to air, and the surface will start to grow bacteria. The longer the tofu is stored, the more bacteria will grow.
If you want to store unopened tofu for a longer time, you can freeze it. It can last in the freezer for about 1 year.
To extend the shelf life of tofu, you can also store it in a vacuum-sealed bag or container. This will prevent the surface from exposure to air and slow down the growth of bacteria.
How long does cooked tofu last?
Cooked tofu can last for 4 days in the refrigerator. If you want to make it longer-lasting, you can freeze it. Sometimes you can not consume tofu for 4 days, so freezing is a good solution. However, freezing it can make the texture harder.
How to know if tofu is bad?
With the help of these tips, you can tell if tofu has gone bad.
Presence of Mold:
The very first thing that you will notice is the presence of mold. If it is there, you can be sure that the tofu is bad. Exposure to air will get spoiled quickly and will develop mold. You have to discard it if you see any signs of mold on the surface.
Smell:
Another way to determine whether it has gone bad is to smell it. If it has gone bad, then it will have a sour smell. You should not consume it that smells sour as it can cause food poisoning.
Color:
The color of tofu also changes when it goes bad. Fresh tofu is white, but if it is spoiled, it will have a yellow or greenish tinge. So, if you notice any change in the color of tofu, it indicates that it has gone bad, and you should not consume it.
Taste:
If you are unsure about the other signs, you can taste the tofu to see if it has gone bad. If it tastes sour or bitter, then it means that it has gone bad, and you should not consume it.
So, these are some of how you can tell if it has gone bad. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the tofu as consuming spoiled tofu can lead to food poisoning.
How to store tofu properly?
You can follow these steps to store it properly.
- Wrap it: Wrap it in a paper towel and then place it in a plastic bag. The paper towel will help to absorb any moisture.
- Refrigerate: Place the wrapped tofu in the fridge, and it should last for about four days.
- Freeze: If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Just wrap it in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It will last for about two months.
Is it Okay to eat expired tofu?
Yes, it is okay to eat expired tofu. The expiration date suggests when the tofu will have the best flavor and be at its peak quality. If your tofu has been stored properly and you have not noticed any signs of spoilage, then it should be safe to eat past the expiration date.
Nutritional value of tofu
The nutritional value of tofu is high. It is a good source of protein, iron, and calcium. Tofu also contains essential fatty acids and is a low-calorie food.
Tofu is made from soybean curds. The curds are pressed into blocks and can be found in various textures, from soft to firm. Tofu can be eaten raw or cooked.
Tofu is a versatile ingredient and can be used in various dishes. It can be stir-fried, grilled, baked, or added to soups and stews.
Summary
Tofu is a food that is made from curdled soy milk. It has a soft texture and can be used in many different recipes. How long does tofu last? Tofu generally lasts for about 2-3 weeks in the fridge or 3-4 months in the freezer.
If you are looking for healthy and delicious food to add to your diet, tofu may be a good option for you. Tofu is made from soy milk, and it has a soft texture that can be used in many different recipes.
References
- http://www.eatbydate.com/proteins/beans-peas/how-long-does-tofu-last-shelf-life/
- https://medium.com/@nomealnohealth/does-tofu-go-bad-you-need-to-read-this-b3ace5b76f33
- https://www.wikihow.com/Store-Tofu
