Can tofu still be eaten if it tastes a bit flavorful

If tofu has a slight odor and has not spoiled, it can be heated and consumed. If there are obvious signs of spoilage such as sourness and stickiness, it is not recommended to consume. Tofu spoilage is mainly related to factors such as storage temperature, time, and packaging integrity. Tofu, as a high protein food, is prone to microbial growth and may produce an unpleasant odor when stored at room temperature for more than 4 hours or refrigerated for more than 3 days. A slight beany or sour taste may be caused by lactic acid bacteria fermentation. Thoroughly boiling for 15 minutes can kill most bacteria and retain some nutrients. When the texture is still tight and there is no discoloration spot, it can be made into Spicy hot bean curd, soy sauce braised tofu and other heavy flavor dishes after cooking at high temperature, and the slight odor can be covered by seasoning. If the surface of tofu is sticky, brushed, or emits a pungent decay odor, it indicates the growth of harmful bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. This type of spoiled tofu is difficult to completely decompose toxins even when heated at high temperatures, and may cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as abdominal pain and vomiting after consumption. Especially for tender tofu and lactone tofu with high moisture content, they deteriorate faster. If mold spots or red color are found, they must be discarded. Tofu that is exposed to high temperatures in summer or has damaged packaging is more prone to spoilage. It is recommended to refrigerate and observe its condition as soon as possible after purchase.

It is recommended to store tofu in a fresh-keeping box filled with clean water and sealed for refrigeration. Changing the water daily can extend the shelf life to 5 days. After discovering the odor, observe the texture changes first. For tofu with slight odor, it is recommended to cook and consume it on the same day to avoid repeated heating. Elderly, children, and immunocompromised individuals should avoid consuming any tofu with an unpleasant odor and choose fresh soy products for safety. If symptoms such as diarrhea and fever occur after ingesting spoiled tofu, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly to investigate the risk of food poisoning.