Can bitter gourd still be eaten when it turns yellow

If bitter gourd turns yellow and does not rot or spoil, it can generally be consumed, but its taste and nutritional value will decrease. The yellowing of bitter gourd may be caused by natural ripening or improper storage, and should be judged based on specific conditions. Bitter gourd gradually turns from green to yellow during the ripening process, which is its natural physiological phenomenon. At this point, the bitterness of bitter gourd will decrease, but the content of water-soluble nutrients such as vitamin C will decrease. If the epidermis is only slightly yellowish and has no mold or soft rot, it can still be consumed after removing the discolored part. This type of bitter gourd is suitable for stewing or making soup. High temperature cooking can further reduce residual bitterness, and when paired with eggs or lean meat, it can increase protein absorption. If bitter gourd shows large areas of yellow spots accompanied by epidermal wrinkling, exudation, or mold growth, it may rot due to damp storage environment or collision damage. Rotten bitter gourd can produce harmful microorganisms, which may cause gastrointestinal discomfort after consumption. Especially in the high temperature environment of summer, open bitter gourd may breed bacteria if stored at room temperature for more than 4 hours, and even if refrigerated, it should not exceed two days. When the bitter melon flesh turns red or emits a sour taste, it must be discarded and not consumed again.

For daily storage of bitter gourd, it is recommended to wrap it in kitchen paper and put it in the refrigerator's vegetable and fruit box to avoid squeezing and colliding. Before cooking, observe whether the transverse section of the meat is white and firm. For cold mixed bitter melon, be sure to choose fresh and green fruits. People with spleen and stomach deficiency and cold should control their intake of bitter melon and can use ginger shreds to neutralize the cold. If you experience abdominal pain and diarrhea after ingesting spoiled bitter gourd, you should promptly replenish electrolyte solution. If the symptoms persist, seek medical treatment.