Thursday, January 8, 2015

Tell If Chicken Broth Has Gone Bad

Chicken broth is the base of many soups.


Unlike pathogenic bacteria, which thrive at high temperatures, spoilage bacteria can grow at low temperatures, as in a refrigerator. The bacteria produces foul smells, discoloration and mold. Chicken broth has many uses in the kitchen. Whether it is homemade or store-bought, check chicken broth for signs of spoilage before use. Serious illness may occur if spoiled chicken broth is consumed. Add this to my Recipe Box.


Instructions


1. Check the expiration date on store-bought chicken broth. Dispose of any chicken broth that is expired.


2. Inspect the container of the chicken broth. As bacteria grows, it releases gas, which can expand containers. This can cause cardboard containers to split open or the tops of jars to protrude outward.


3. Smell the chicken broth. Any off smell indicates that the chicken broth has spoiled. Most spoiled chicken broth smells like rotten eggs or old bread. Research published in the "Journal of Neurophysiology" in March 2008 showed that the brain contains special chemical receptors that act in a protective manner, causing a physical reaction to stimuli it perceives as harmful. Any odor that seems foul, causing tearing in the eyes or a gag reflex, means that your brain is sending you a danger signal.


4. Inspect the broth visually. Any sign of mold or cloudiness of the chicken broth indicate that it is spoiled.

Tags: chicken broth, chicken broth, Chicken broth, spoiled chicken, spoiled chicken broth