How to Tell If Tofu is Bad

Tofu is a great substitute for meat and other proteins, but like other food items it can go bad. When you purchase your tofu, be sure you check the expiration date so you do not purchase tofu that might have gone bad already. When you get it home, try to use it as soon as possible to avoid letting it turn.

1. Look at the expiration date listed on your package of tofu. If that date has passed and the container has not been opened, you should probably dispose of the tofu. If that date has passed and the container has been opened, you will need to check the tofu more closely. Generally speaking, tofu should be used within a week of being opened. If you have had your opened container of tofu longer than one week, it has probably gone bad.
2. Open the container and look at the tofu itself. If it is an unusual color or if it appears to be growing mold, the tofu is not good any longer. If the tofu begins to fall apart or if it starts to look like cottage cheese, it has gone bad.
3. Look at the water surrounding the tofu. Normally, this water is clear. If the water surrounding the tofu is discolored or has what looks like mold floating in it, the tofu has gone bad.
    
4. Smell the tofu. If it smells unpleasant or sour, the tofu is no longer any good.
5. Touch the tofu. Tofu's normal texture is not slimy even though it sits in water. If your tofu is slimy when you touch it, you should throw it away because it has gone bad.