If you love Italian cuisine, then you are probably familiar with mozzarella cheese. This cheese is a staple ingredient in many popular dishes like pizza, lasagna and caprese salads.

It is a type of soft cheese that is made from the milk of water buffaloes or cows. However, not all mozzarella cheese is created equal. Sometimes, you may come across bad mozzarella cheese that can ruin your entire dish.

So, what does bad mozzarella cheese look like? Here are some signs to watch out for:

Expired Mozzarella Cheese

One of the most common reasons for bad mozzarella cheese is expired cheese. If you have had a pack of mozzarella sitting in your refrigerator for too long, it could go bad. Expired mozzarella will develop mold on it and could have a sour smell.

Discolored Mozzarella Cheese

Fresh mozzarella should be pure white in color. If it starts to turn yellowish or brownish, it may be an indication that the cheese has gone bad. This discoloration could be due to moisture or bacterial growth.

Slimy Mozzarella Cheese

When fresh mozzarella goes bad, it can become slimy and mushy in texture. This sliminess is usually caused by bacterial growth or high moisture content. Slimy mozzarella should not be consumed as it can cause food poisoning.

Sour Smelling Mozzarella Cheese

Fresh mozzarella should have a mild and buttery aroma. However, if the cheese develops a sour smell similar to vinegar or ammonia, then it has likely gone bad due to bacterial growth.

Tips for Choosing Good Mozzarella Cheese

Now that you know what bad mozzarella looks and smells like let’s talk about how to choose good quality mozzarella:

  • Check the expiration date before buying mozzarella cheese.
  • Choose mozzarella cheese that is firm to the touch and has a clean, white color.
  • Smell the cheese to make sure it has a mild and buttery aroma.

In Conclusion

In summary, bad mozzarella cheese can ruin your dish. Keep an eye out for signs of expired or bad mozzarella like discoloration, sliminess, sour smell, or mold. Always choose fresh and good quality mozzarella cheese to ensure that your dish turns out delicious.