Can you eat expired tofu?
In this brief guide we will answer the following query” can you eat expired tofu?” We will discuss the nutritional value and proper ways to store the tofu. We will also discuss the health concerns of eating expired tofu.
Can you eat expired tofu?
No, you should not eat expired tofu as it may contain certain harmful chemicals and microbes that can affect your normal health. The expiration of tofu depends upon the type of the tofu and the manufacturing process. The expiration date is mentioned on the packaging.
Normally you can eat tofu after the best before date if it is not showing any visible signs of spoilage. If your tofu is showing signs of spoilage then you should consider throwing it away. If your tofu’s storage was perfect then you can use it after the best before date.
How is tofu made?
Tofu is a vegetarian variant of cheese. It is made from soya beans instead of milk. Tofu is prepared by the coagulation of soy milk and then the water is removed from it resulting in the firm and solid residue.
The main property of tofu is it is subtle in taste and can absorb flavours from any dish easily. This is the reason that tofu goes well with gravies and curries.
What is the nutritional value of tofu?
Tofu is a lean source of vegetarian protein. Tofu is being used worldwide as a replacement for meat protein sources by people who are choosing a vegan lifestyle for themselves. Tofu is a good source of proteins and it is low in fat which is a good choice for people who are looking for low-calorie food options.
100 g of tofu consists of the following nutrients.
| Nutrients | Value | Nutrients | Value |
| Protein | 8 g | Carbohydrates | 1.9 g |
| Fats | 4.8 g | Sodium | 7 g |
| Energy | 76 kcal | Potassium | 121 mg |
| Calcium | 35 % | Iron | 30 % |
What are the proper ways to store tofu?
Tofu is a perishable food that needs proper storage temperature and conditions.
- You need to put your tofu in the refrigerator if you want it to be safe. It can go for up to 1 week in the refrigerator. tofu‘s shelf life is increased if you keep it in the refrigerator.
- Always put your tofu in air-tight containers so that it may not be contaminated with microbes. This will decrease its chance of spoilage.
- If you want to store tofu for a longer duration you can freeze it. This way it will remain fresh for more than 1 month.
- To -prevent your tofu from drying out you can put it in the water. The water will keep your tofu fresh.
- Do not store your tofu at room temperature; it needs a lower temperature to remain fresh and good.
What are the health benefits of eating tofu?
Tofu is considered to be a vegan alternative to dairy cheese. It contains certain health benefits that are discussed below.
It may help your heart health
Tofu shows cholesterol-lowering effects in some studies. According to the research, soy protein has been linked to lower levels of LDL in the blood. Isoflavones present in the soy help in maintaining the blood lipid profile.
Reduces the risk of cancer
The consumption of soy has been linked to a decrease in cancer. According to the research, the cancer mortality rate is 16 % less in people who eat a diet that is rich in soy. Research suggests that the consumption of tofu reduces the risk of breast cancer.
Make your bones stronger
Tofu is a good source of calcium which is necessary for bone health. Eating tofu makes your bones stronger.
What are the health risks of eating expired tofu?
If your tofu has passed its expiration date and it is showing visible signs of spoilage then eating tofu can cause certain health problems.
Food poisoning
You can get food poisoning from eating bad or contaminated tofu. Tofu can be contaminated by salmonella which can cause abdominal pain, cramps, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Do not eat raw tofu, always cook it before eating because cooking kills many germs from it.
Thyroid problems
Eating tofu or other soy products can cause a disturbance in the absorption of the thyroid. The increased intake of tofu can cause hypothyroidism.
Kidney stones
The tofu is rich in oxalates and these oxalates when they bind with the calcium in the kidneys can cause kidney stones.
Tofu can also alter the absorption of many minerals in the body. It contains phytic acid which binds certain minerals with itself thus decreasing their absorption.
Other FAQs about Tofu that you may be interested in.
Can you eat silken tofu without cooking it?
Conclusion
In this brief guide we answered the following query: “Can you eat expired tofu?” We also discussed the nutritional value and proper ways to store the tofu. We also discussed the health concerns of eating expired tofu.
