That package of mayonnaise that's been opened for weeks may pose more of a risk than it seems. Some sauces remain safe for consumption for a long time when stored correctly, while others spoil easily and can encourage the proliferation of bacteria.
The 4 sauces that can put your health at risk after their expiration date
That package of mayonnaise that's been opened for weeks may pose more of a risk than it seems. Some sauces remain safe for consumption for a long time when stored correctly, while others spoil easily and can encourage...
Experts consulted by the EatingWell website explain that the level of acidity, salt, sugar, water and protein of each product directly affects its conservation.
Industrialized sauces such as ketchup, mustard and soy sauce tend to present less risk after the expiration date indicated on the packaging. Although they may undergo changes in flavor, color or consistency, they rarely cause illness when stored correctly.
"Very acidic, salty or sugary sauces create less favorable environments for microbial growth. Therefore, it is possible to notice changes in flavor, color and texture", explained nutritionist Jessica Brantley-Lopez.
Products prepared with eggs, milk and other ingredients rich in water and protein require more care, as they become more favorable environments for the multiplication of microorganisms.
Creamy sauces
Sauces with vinegar tend to last longer. Creamy versions, however, usually contain dairy ingredients, have a shorter shelf life and need to remain refrigerated.
According to Lopez, products like ranch dressing offer fewer natural barriers against spoilage, as they have little acidity, salt or sugar.
"I'm more careful with creamy and perishable sauces, like ranch. I don't recommend extending consumption beyond the expiration date," he said.
Once opened, these products should generally be consumed within one to two months or within the period indicated by the manufacturer.
Sour cream, crème fraîche and yogurt
Dairy products used as side dishes or seasonings also deteriorate quickly, even when fermented. This category includes products such as sour cream, crème fraîche and yogurt.
The presence of ingredients such as salt or sugar does not prevent them from spoiling, especially when the packaging remains open for a long time.
Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise deserves special attention because it is prepared with eggs. You should be even more careful with homemade versions, which tend to contain less acid than industrialized ones and, therefore, can spoil more quickly.
To reduce risks, it is necessary to always keep it refrigerated and avoid leaving it out of the refrigerator for long periods.
Homemade sauces and pastes
Hummus, guacamole, pesto and other homemade recipes also have a reduced shelf life. Without the preservatives present in many industrialized products, these foods can encourage the proliferation of microorganisms, including salmonella, when they remain stored for an excessive time.
When to throw the product away
The recommendation is to discard the sauce when it is not possible to remember how long the packaging has been opened, when the expiration date has passed or when there are obvious changes in the smell, color and texture.
Mold, sour odor, sticky or slimy consistency and darkening of the surface also indicate that the food should no longer be consumed.
A simple measure to avoid doubts is to write down the date on which the product was opened on the packaging.
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Source: Noticias ao Minuto - Lifestyle
This story was originally published by Noticias ao Minuto - Lifestyle. Visit the original publication for further details.
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