How To Tell If A Mango Is Bad - The Ultimate Guide - Foods Guy

*This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure to learn more.

Quick Answer

To identify a bad mango, check for the following indicators:

1. Visual signs: Look for dark spots, wrinkles, or large blemishes on the skin.
2. Textural changes: A mushy or overly soft texture can indicate spoilage.
3. Olfactory clues: A sour or unpleasant smell is a strong sign the mango is no longer good.

Read on for more detail

Table of Contents

• Quick Answer
• How to Tell If a Mango Has Gone Bad
  • Physical Appearance
  • Texture
  • Smell
• Visual Indicators of a Bad Mango
  • Discoloration
  • Wrinkling
  • Oozing or Liquid Secretion
• Signs Your Mangos Should be Thrown Out
  • Look for Mold
  • Check for Unpleasant Odor
  • Examine the Texture
  • Watch for Leaking Juices
• Health Implications of Eating Bad Mango
  • Potential Health Risks of Consuming Spoiled Mango
  • What to Do If You've Eaten a Bad Mango
• How to Properly Store Mangoes to Avoid Spoilage
  • Room Temperature Storage
  • Refrigeration
• Texture Changes: Recognizing a Mango's Journey from Ripe to Spoiled
  • Ripe Mango: The Perfect Softness
  • Overripe Mango: The Mushy Stage
  • Understanding Spoilage: When to Toss
• How to Identify Offputting Odors
  • Recognizing the Aroma of a Ripe Mango
  • Detecting Unpleasant Odors in Spoiled Mangoes
• Different Types of Mangoes
  • 1. Haden Mango
  • 2. Ataulfo (or Honey) Mango
  • 3. Tommy Atkins
  • 4. Kent Mango
  • 5. Keitt Mango
  • 6. Alphonse (or Alphonso) Mango
• Expert Tips for Selecting Ripe and Flavorful Mangoes
• Using the Sniff Test to Determine Ripeness
  • Comparing the Sniff Test with Other Ripeness Indicators
• What a Mango's Skin and Weight Can Tell You
  • 1. The Skin's Story
  • 2. Weighing In on Ripeness
• Common Myths About Mango Ripeness
  • Myth 1: Color Equals Ripeness
  • Myth 2: All Mangos Ripen the Same Way
  • Myth 3: Firm Mangos Are Always Unripe
  • Myth 4: Refrigeration Stops Ripening
  • Myth 5: Blemishes Mean Spoilage
• Comparing Nutritional Value of Good vs. Bad Mango
  • Can you eat a mango that has brown spots on the flesh?
  • How should I cut a mango to avoid waste?
  • How long can mangoes be stored in the refrigerator?
  • Is it safe to eat a mango with a fermented smell?
  • What's the best way to ripen mangoes at home?
  • Are there any health benefits to eating mango?
  • Can mangoes be frozen, and how do you do it?
  • Can overripe mangoes be used in recipes?

How to Tell If a Mango Has Gone Bad

There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly ripe mango. But how do you know when it’s time to say goodbye to your beloved fruit? Detecting when a mango has gone bad is crucial to enjoy the juicy, sweet experience they offer.

Here are the key indicators to watch out for:

Physical Appearance

The first sign that a mango has seen better days is its outward appearance. Look for mold, which often appears as white or gray fuzz on the surface. A mango that has lost its vibrant color and appears dull may also be past its prime.

Texture

Gently squeeze the mango. If it feels excessively soft or mushy, it’s a clear indication that the fruit is overripe or spoiled. Remember, a ripe mango will yield slightly to pressure, but it shouldn’t feel like you’re pressing on a pillow.

Smell

Now, let’s talk about the sniff test—an often underestimated but effective way to judge fruit freshness. A fresh mango has a sweet, fruity aroma. However, if it emits a sour or fermented odor, it’s best to toss it.

Watch out for these telltale signs, and you’ll enjoy your mangoes at their best. Next, we’ll dive into the visual indicators in more detail, including discoloration and liquid secretion from the fruit.

Visual Indicators of a Bad Mango

Mangos are such a delight when fresh, offering that perfect balance of sweetness and tang. But, like many fruits, they have a tell-tale way of letting us know when they’re past their prime. Let’s dive into the visual cues that help determine if your mango has gone bad.

Discoloration

The skin of a healthy, ripe mango typically has a vibrant hue, whether it be yellow, red, or green, depending on the variety. But when a mango is starting to spoil, you might notice:

• Dark Spots: Initially small, these patches can spread, indicating the fruit’s decay.
• Brown or Black Streaks: These streaks across the skin often mean the mango was bruised and is now turning bad.

Wrinkling

A fresh mango should have a slightly firm, smooth surface. However, as it starts to spoil:

• Wrinkled Skin: Especially around the stem area, this indicates the mango is drying out and losing its freshness.

Oozing or Liquid Secretion

This is a clear warning signal. If you find any sticky or milky liquid seeping from your mango, it’s time to discard it.

• Sticky Seepage: This suggests the fruit is fermenting or beginning to rot from the inside.

These visual indicators play an essential part in assessing a mango’s condition. Up next, we’ll explore when these signs definitively mean it’s time to toss the mango out.

Signs Your Mangos Should be Thrown Out

When it comes to deciding if your mango should be tossed or enjoyed, your senses are your best guide. Let’s break down how you can tell if a mango has turned bad, using its appearance, smell, and texture as clues.

Look for Mold

Start by inspecting the skin. If you notice any mold, typically appearing as fuzzy white or bluish spots, it’s time to say goodbye to that mango. Mold indicates fungal growth, which can quickly spread, making the fruit unsafe to eat.

Check for Unpleasant Odor

The smell of a mango is often delightful—fruity and inviting. However, if your mango gives off a sour or alcohol-like odor, it’s likely fermenting or decomposing. This offputting scent suggests that spoilage has begun, and eating it could be risky.

Examine the Texture

Texture is another major tell-tale sign. A mango should be firm yet slightly yielding to indicate ripeness. However, if it feels overly mushy, has deep indentations, or shows signs of shriveling or wrinkling, it’s probably past its prime. Furthermore, if you slice into the mango and see internal browning or mushiness beyond normal, that’s another red flag.

Watch for Leaking Juices

If your mango is oozing liquid, it’s likely overripe or beginning to rot. Juices leaking from small splits in the skin might seem minor, but they can signify internal spoilage that hasn’t yet reached the surface.

In essence, any mango displaying a combination of these signs is better off in the compost bin rather than on your plate. Next, we’ll explore the health implications of consuming a bad mango and what steps to take if you suspect you’ve eaten spoiled fruit.

Health Implications of Eating Bad Mango

We’ve all been there—unsure if fruit lurking in the fridge is still good to eat. So, what happens if you accidentally munch on a mango that’s past its prime? Let’s delve into the health implications and steps to take if you find yourself in this juicy predicament.

Potential Health Risks of Consuming Spoiled Mango

Consuming a bad mango can lead to several uncomfortable and unwanted health effects. Here are a few possibilities:

1. Food Poisoning: Like other spoiled fruits, bad mangoes can harbor harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella or E. coli. These can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea.
2. Allergic Reactions: Spoiled mangoes, especially those past their fermentation point, might trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, leading to itching, swelling, or even respiratory issues.
3. Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Eating a fermented or moldy mango can cause an upset stomach, bloating, or gas due to unwanted yeast and bacteria.

What to Do If You’ve Eaten a Bad Mango

If you suspect you’ve eaten a bad mango, there are steps you can take to minimize any potential discomfort:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush out any toxins from your system and to prevent dehydration, especially if you’re experiencing diarrhea or vomiting.
2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any symptoms you might experience. Generally, mild symptoms such as bloating or mild stomach upset will pass on their own.
3. Avoid Solid Foods: If symptoms are severe, avoid solid foods for a few hours to give your digestive system time to recover.
4. Seek Medical Attention: If symptoms persist or worsen, especially if you experience high fever, severe pain, or continuous vomiting, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Eating a spoiled mango isn’t fun, but understanding the potential effects can help you act quickly and effectively. Now, let’s move on to preventing such mishaps by learning how to properly store mangoes to extend their freshness.

How to Properly Store Mangoes to Avoid Spoilage

We all love the vibrant taste of a perfectly ripe mango, but knowing how to store them is key to preserving that deliciousness. Proper storage methods can help extend the shelf life of your mangoes and minimize spoilage. Let’s walk through the best practices for storing mangoes both at room temperature and in the fridge.

Room Temperature Storage

Freshly picked mangoes are often firm and not quite ripe. At this stage, keeping them out of the refrigerator can help them ripen naturally. Here’s how:

1. Find a Cool Spot: Place your mangoes in a cool, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight or excessively warm places to prevent overripening.
2. Check Daily: Monitor their firmness daily. As mangoes ripen, they become softer to the touch. Once you notice a gentle give when pressed, they are ready to eat or store further.

Refrigeration

Once your mangoes have ripened to your liking, it’s time to refrigerate them to slow down further ripening and spoilage. Here’s the best way to do it:

1. Place in the Crisper Drawer: Store the ripe mangoes in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. This keeps them cool and stable, maintaining their texture and flavor for longer.
2. Store in a Container or Bag: Use a plastic bag or airtight container to store the mangoes to prevent them from absorbing odors from other foods.

Remember, storing your mangoes properly not only keeps them from going bad but also preserves their delightful taste and texture. As we turn our attention to the next crucial topic, let’s explore how texture changes can indicate whether a mango is past its prime.

Texture Changes: Recognizing a Mango’s Journey from Ripe to Spoiled

Mangoes are tropical delights, but their journey from ripe to overripe can be tricky to navigate. Understanding these changes helps in ensuring you enjoy their best flavors without any surprises. Let’s dive into the tactile tale of mangoes!

Ripe Mango: The Perfect Softness

When a mango is perfectly ripe, it strikes a delightful balance between firmness and softness. Here’s what to look for when testing the texture of a ripe mango:

• Slight Give: Gently press the mango with your fingertips. A ripe mango should yield slightly under pressure, much like a peach. This indicates juicy, flavorful flesh inside.
• Uniform Softness: The mango should feel uniformly soft around its surface, with no hard or overly soft spots.

Overripe Mango: The Mushy Stage

As a mango continues to ripen, it can quickly progress to being overripe. Here are the telltale signs of an overripe mango:

• Mushy and Squishy: An overripe mango will feel overly soft and squishy, similar to a tomato that’s past its prime.
• Soft Spots: Watch out for areas that are significantly softer than others, often indicating internal bruising or spoilage.

Understanding Spoilage: When to Toss

If your mango feels like it could rival a sponge, it’s time to part ways. Here’s how you know it’s gone bad:

• Excessive Mushiness: A mango that is excessively mushy and difficult to hold without almost collapsing likely has begun to spoil.
• Leakage: If the mango’s juice is seeping through the skin, it’s a surefire sign the fruit has gone past its prime.

Texture changes are often accompanied by other indicators, and our next section will cover how the smell can further help determine if a mango has gone bad. Let’s continue to nosedive into the aromatic clues!

How to Identify Offputting Odors

It’s often said that the nose knows, and that’s certainly the case when it comes to mangoes. The aroma of a mango can be a telltale sign of its ripeness and can help you determine if it’s past its prime. Let’s break down the distinct differences between the scents of a ripe mango and one that’s gone bad.

Recognizing the Aroma of a Ripe Mango

A ripe mango’s fragrance is nothing short of heavenly. Picture this: a sweet, floral scent that transports you to a tropical paradise. It’s inviting and lush, beckoning you to take a bite. Here’s how you can identify the delightful aroma of a ripe mango:

1. The fragrance is subtly sweet and aromatic, similar to the scent of a fresh, blooming flower garden.
2. It can have a mild hint of citrus or pine, adding a refreshing touch to its sweetness.

This enticing smell signals that your mango is ready to be enjoyed.

Detecting Unpleasant Odors in Spoiled Mangoes

On the flip side, identifying a spoiled mango through scent is just as straightforward. When a mango goes bad, it develops an offputting odor that’s hard to ignore. Here are key indicators:

1. The sweet aroma is replaced with a sour, almost vinegary smell. It’s like a whiff of something fermented.
2. In some cases, you might detect a slight chemical or alcohol-like scent, which is a sign of fermentation and spoilage.

These unpleasant odors are your mango’s way of telling you it’s seen better days and should probably be discarded.

A mango’s aroma can guide you in distinguishing between perfectly ripe and regrettably spoiled. But smell isn’t the sole indicator—up next, we’ll explore the diverse world of mango varieties, each with its own unique characteristics, in our section on Different Types of Mangoes.

Different Types of Mangoes

Mangoes are like nature’s own sweet treasures, each variety offering unique flavors and textures. Knowing the different types can help you pick the best one for your needs and recognize signs of spoilage. Let’s dive into some popular mango varieties and their characteristics. Understanding these differences will also be valuable in selecting ripe mangoes, which we’ll cover next.

1. Haden Mango

The Haden mango is a classic favorite in many households. It’s known for its vibrant red and yellow skin with green patches. Look for a fragrant aroma and slight give when pressing gently on the skin as ripeness indicators. It’s slightly fibrous but offers a sweet, rich taste when perfectly ripe.

2. Ataulfo (or Honey) Mango

Sweet as honey, the Ataulfo mango stands out with its smaller, kidney-shaped body and bright yellow skin. Its non-fibrous texture makes it smooth and creamy, perfect for desserts. When ripe, the fruit is soft to the touch, with a rich golden color. These mangoes often exhibit a very sweet smell when they’re at their best.

3. Tommy Atkins

This type is probably what you’ve seen most in local grocery stores. They’re medium to large in size, with a tough skin that’s a blend of red and green, and sometimes hints of orange or yellow. While its flavor is mild and less sweet, its longer shelf life makes it popular. A ripe Tommy Atkins mango is slightly soft, though these can be tricky as the firmness isn’t as telling.

4. Kent Mango

The Kent mango shines with its mostly green skin and sometimes has a red blush. Known for its juicy, tender flesh, it has minimal fibers, making it ideal for a refreshing snack. Ripeness is signaled by yellow dots or speckles on the skin and a bit of softness when squeezed.

5. Keitt Mango

Keitt mangoes are large, with green skin that might turn slightly yellow when ripe. They’re sweet with a firm, juicy texture, and little fibrousness. Ripeness can be a bit reliant on scent and feel, as the color change is subtle.

6. Alphonse (or Alphonso) Mango

Highly prized for its intricate flavor profile, the Alphonse mango is an aromatic delight. Its deep yellow skin tinged with gold and its intense, sweet taste are a treat. When ripe, it feels soft and releases a sweet, floral aroma.

Each variety of mango brings something unique to the table. Recognizing these differences can not only help you in picking the right type for your taste and recipes but also assist in spotting the initial signs of spoilage. With these mangoes in mind, let’s explore expert tips on selecting the perfect ripe and flavorful mango next.

Expert Tips for Selecting Ripe and Flavorful Mangoes

Choosing the perfect mango can be an art form. With so many types available, it’s essential to know what to look for to enjoy their full, juicy potential. Here are some expert tips to help you find the best mangoes, guided by visual, textural, and aromatic cues.

1. Visual Cues: While color can vary among mango types, you generally want to look for a slight redness or golden hue, indicating ripeness. Steer clear of dull gray patches or black spots, as these could mean overripeness or decay.
2. Texture Check: A ripe mango should have a firm but giving texture, similar to a firm peach. Press gently with your thumb; it should yield slightly under pressure. If it’s rock hard, it’s not ripe, and if it’s too mushy, you should pass.
3. Aromatic Signals: The aroma of a mango is one of the most important indicators of its ripeness. A sweet and rich fragrance, much like a tropical fruit paradise, emanating from the stem end suggests it’s ready to eat. Avoid those void of smell or with a sour odor.
4. Weight and Feel: A ripe mango will feel a bit heavier than it looks, indicating juiciness. Compare a few mangoes of the same size and choose the heftier one. The next section will touch on how a mango’s skin and weight can also offer insights into its freshness.

Selecting the right mango takes a bit of practice, but with these tips, you’ll soon be picking ripe, flavorful fruits like a pro. In the upcoming section, we’ll explore the sniff test in more detail, and how it can be a game-changer when determining a mango’s ripeness. Stay tuned for more fruitful insights!

Using the Sniff Test to Determine Ripeness

When it comes to determining the ripeness of a mango, trusting your nose can be incredibly effective. The sniff test, especially when performed near the stem end of the mango, is a straightforward approach to gauge its readiness to eat.

Mangoes have a delightful aroma that intensifies as they ripen. By sniffing around the stem area, you can determine if a mango is ripe enough. A ripe mango will exude a sweet, fruity fragrance that’s hard to miss. If you notice a strong aroma, chances are the fruit is just perfect for eating.

Comparing the Sniff Test with Other Ripeness Indicators

While the sniff test is a quick and reliable method, it can be used effectively alongside other indicators:

1. Visual Cues: As discussed earlier, a ripe mango should have a rich color and might show slight wrinkles on the skin.
2. Texture Changes: Give the mango a gentle squeeze. It should yield slightly under pressure if it’s ripe, but not be too soft or mushy.
3. Weight: A ripe mango will feel slightly heavy for its size, indicating juiciness and ripeness.

Combining the sniff test with these methods provides a comprehensive understanding of a mango’s ripeness. It’s a sensory synergy that makes selecting perfect mangoes an art form.

Next, let’s explore how a mango’s skin and weight can also provide valuable insights into selecting the ideal fruit.

What a Mango’s Skin and Weight Can Tell You

Understanding the signs of a ripe mango isn’t just about the sniff test; let’s delve into what the skin and weight can reveal. These physical cues are invaluable in determining whether a mango is ready to eat or past its prime. Let’s break down exactly what to look for.

1. The Skin’s Story

A mango’s skin is like its calling card, giving you heaps of insight into its ripeness. Here are the key things to note:

• Color Changes: While color isn’t the sole indicator, it can provide clues. Ripe mangoes often have a mix of reddish hues, yellows, or oranges, depending on the variety. Beware of predominantly green skin as it may indicate underripeness.
• Texture and Firmness: Check the texture by running your fingers over the skin. Ripe mangoes tend to be slightly soft and give a little when gently squeezed. However, mushy spots might indicate overripeness or spoilage.
• Appearance: Avoid mangoes with large dark spots, wrinkled skin, or a withered appearance, all signs it might be overripe or beginning to spoil.

2. Weighing In on Ripeness

Much like the skin, a mango’s weight can surprise you with the secrets it holds about ripeness:

• Heavier Than It Looks: A ripe mango often feels heavier for its size. This density is a sign of juiciness, hinting at peak ripeness.
• Balanced Feel: Lightweight or hollow-feeling mangoes could be past their best, as dehydration or spoilage may have set in.

Trusting your senses when it comes to choosing mangoes can help avoid waste and disappointment. With practice, you’ll quickly pick out the best of the bunch. Stay tuned for our next section where we’ll debunk some common myths about mango ripeness that might leave you second-guessing your picks!

Common Myths About Mango Ripeness

When it comes to enjoying mangos, there are quite a few myths floating around that can lead to some serious confusion in the produce section. Let’s set the record straight and help you become a mango selection maestro.

Myth 1: Color Equals Ripeness

One of the biggest misconceptions is that the color of a mango indicates its ripeness. While a perfectly ripe mango is a delightful golden-orange shade in many varieties, color alone isn’t a reliable indicator across the board. Some types remain green even when ripe, such as the Keitt mango. Focus on other ripeness indicators, like texture, for a more accurate assessment.

Myth 2: All Mangos Ripen the Same Way

Not all mangos ripen uniformly. You might have heard that once a mango starts ripening, it’s a straight path to perfection. However, different varieties mature differently, with some becoming slightly wrinkled as they ripen. Understand your mango type, and pair this knowledge with texture and aroma to gauge ripeness effectively.

Myth 3: Firm Mangos Are Always Unripe

A firm mango doesn’t automatically mean it’s unripe. Some varieties naturally have a firmer feel even when ripe. A gentle squeeze should reveal a slight give, indicating readiness for eating. Texture plays a huge part in identifying ripeness over mere firmness alone.

Myth 4: Refrigeration Stops Ripening

Storing mangos in the fridge will slow down ripening but won’t halt it completely. If your mango is perfectly ripe, refrigeration can maintain its delicious state. However, to continue ripening, keep your mangoes at room temperature.

Myth 5: Blemishes Mean Spoilage

Don’t be quick to judge a mango by a few spots or blemishes. Unlike spoilage indicators such as mold or strong off-putting odors, minor blemishes don’t necessarily signal that a mango is bad. A little spot here and there can be the result of handling but often doesn’t affect the fruit’s taste or ripeness.

Now that we’ve unraveled these myths about mango ripeness, you’re better prepared to make informed choices in the fruit aisle. Up next, we’ll dive into comparing the nutritional value of good versus bad mangoes. Stay tuned!

Comparing Nutritional Value of Good vs. Bad Mango

Ah, mangoes—the sweet, juicy delights that many of us crave, especially during those warm, sunny days. But what happens when these tropical treasures go past their prime? Let’s dig into how the nutritional integrity of mangoes changes as they spoil, helping you make informed choices for your meals.

A fresh, ripe mango is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It’s rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and a good source of dietary fiber. These nutrients support your immune system, improve skin health, and aid digestion. You’ll also enjoy fundamental antioxidants that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.

However, as a mango starts to spoil, not only does its taste and texture go south, but some nutritional elements might also degrade. Here’s a brief look:

1. Vitamin Content: Overripe mangoes can lose vitamin C potency. This is because vitamin C is sensitive to exposure to air—a consequence of damaged or overly soft fruit.
2. Antioxidants: The antioxidative power might decrease as the fruit decays, compromising its ability to combat oxidative stress effectively.
3. Mold and Overripe Considerations: Besides potential nutrient loss, there’s a health risk. Eating spoiled mangoes can introduce mold toxins into your diet, which are best avoided.

Mangoes starting to show signs of spoilage are no longer the nutritional goldmines they once were. The visual indicators of spoilage—like browning, mushiness, or a distinctly off-putting odor—signal that it’s time to skip its consumption if nutrients are what you’re after.

To prevent these issues, it’s crucial to store your mangoes properly, which we’ll explore in the next section. This way, you can savor their nutritious bounty without any worry!

Characteristic	Good Mango	Bad Mango
Texture	Firm, slight give	Mushy, overly soft
Appearance	Vibrant, unblemished skin	Dark spots, mold
Aroma	Sweet, fruity	Sour, fermented
Taste	Sweet, juicy	Bitter, off

Can you eat a mango that has brown spots on the flesh?

While brown spots on the flesh of a mango don’t necessarily mean the fruit is bad, they can indicate overripeness or internal bruising. You can still eat the unaffected parts, but if the spots are extensive or accompanied by an off smell, it’s best to discard the mango.

How should I cut a mango to avoid waste?

To cut a mango efficiently, slice off the two cheeks of the mango by making cuts alongside the pit in the center. Then, score the flesh in a grid pattern and scoop it out with a spoon. This technique minimizes waste and maximizes the amount of edible fruit you get.

How long can mangoes be stored in the refrigerator?

Ripe mangoes can typically be stored in the refrigerator for about 5 to 7 days. However, it’s essential to keep them in the crisper drawer or in a sealed container to preserve their flavor and texture for as long as possible.

Is it safe to eat a mango with a fermented smell?

No, it is not safe to eat a mango that has a fermented smell, as this indicates that the fruit has begun to spoil. Consuming spoiled fruit can lead to foodborne illnesses and should be avoided.

What’s the best way to ripen mangoes at home?

The best way to ripen mangoes at home is to place them at room temperature in a cool, dry place. You can also speed up the process by placing the mangoes in a paper bag to trap ethylene gas, which promotes ripening.

Are there any health benefits to eating mango?

Yes, mangoes are nutritious fruits packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. They can support immune health, improve digestion, and provide skin benefits, contributing to overall wellness when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Can mangoes be frozen, and how do you do it?

Yes, mangoes can be frozen for later use. To freeze mangoes, peel and chop them into pieces, lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and then transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, they won’t clump together. They can last in the freezer for about 6 to 12 months.

Can overripe mangoes be used in recipes?

Yes, overripe mangoes can still be used in recipes like smoothies, sauces, or baked goods where texture is less critical. However, ensure there are no signs of spoilage, such as mold or a bad odor, before using them.