Cabbage is a hearty vegetable that can last a long time in your fridge or pantry. However, there are some signs that indicate your cabbage has gone bad and should be thrown out. Here we will go over how to tell when cabbage has gone bad, how to store cabbage properly to extend its shelf life, and what to do if you accidentally eat spoiled cabbage.
How can you tell when cabbage has gone bad?
There are a few clear signs that your cabbage has spoiled and should be discarded:
- Bad smell – Fresh cabbage has a mild, vegetal smell. Rotten cabbage will have a strong, foul odor.
- Sliminess – Spoiled cabbage will develop a slippery, slimy texture on the outside leaves.
- Mold – You may see fuzzy mold growing on the exterior or cut surfaces of old cabbage.
- Discoloration – Over time, the leaves change from bright green to dull yellow or brown.
- Limpness – Wilted, mushy leaves indicate the cabbage is past its prime.
- Dryness – Shriveled, dried out leaves mean the cabbage has lost too much moisture.
Trust your senses – if your cabbage smells bad, looks rotten or feels mushy, it’s best to throw it out. Don’t rely on dates alone, as cabbage can spoil before or after the “best by” date depending on storage conditions.
How to store cabbage correctly
Proper storage is key to keeping cabbage fresh longer. Follow these cabbage storage tips:
- Leave outer leaves intact – Don’t remove the outer green leaves before storing, as they protect the inner leaves from drying out.
- Use the crisper drawer – Place cabbage in the high-humidity crisper drawer of your fridge, away from ethylene-producing fruits.
- Wrap in plastic – Enclose cabbage in a plastic produce bag or wrap in plastic wrap to retain moisture.
- Avoid freezing temperatures – Don’t store cabbage below 32°F, as frost can damage cell structure.
- Avoid excess moisture – Wet cabbage is prone to mold and rot. Pat heads dry before storing.
- Watch out for traps – Store cabbage away from rotting veggies which could accelerate spoilage.
Kept at 32-40°F in the crisper drawer, fresh cabbage can last 3-6 weeks. Sauerkraut packed in brine will keep for 4-6 months refrigerated.
What if you eat spoiled cabbage?
Eating spoiled, rotten cabbage can cause unpleasant symptoms like:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Food poisoning
However, in most cases eating a small amount of spoiled cabbage will just result in an upset stomach. The biggest risk is from bacterial growth like Salmonella or E. coli. If you experience severe vomiting, bloody stool, high fever or diarrhea lasting over 3 days after eating bad cabbage, seek medical attention.
To be safe, toss out cabbage at the first signs of spoilage. Don’t rely on your sense of smell if you have a cold or stuffy nose. When in doubt, remember this simple rule – when cabbage smells funky, it’s no longer chunky!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you tell if pre-cut or shredded cabbage has gone bad?
Pre-cut and shredded cabbage has a shorter shelf life, usually 7-10 days. Check for foul odors, sliminess, mold and yellowing. Discard at the first signs of spoilage.
Can you freeze cabbage to extend its shelf life?
Yes, cabbage can be frozen to preserve it for 4-6 months. Blanch cabbage first to stop enzyme action and retain color and texture. Portion into freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
What is the best way to revive limp cabbage?
To revive limp cabbage, soak the head upside down in cold water for 15-30 minutes. Trim away any spoiled outer leaves. Pat dry, wrap in plastic and refrigerate. Use revitalized cabbage within a few days.
Is it safe to eat sauerkraut past the expiration date?
Commercially packaged sauerkraut keeps for up to 6 months past the printed “best by” date, thanks to the naturally preservative qualities of lactic acid bacteria and salt.Evaluate for any mold, yeast growth, foul smell or sliminess before eating.
Can you eat cabbage with black spots?
Small black or brown spots on outer cabbage leaves may just be harmless dirt or natural pigment. But deep, spreading discoloration or mold indicates decay. Remove damaged areas or discard the whole head to be safe.
Conclusion
Knowing when to throw cabbage away takes some careful inspection for signs of rot. Follow the best storage methods to maximize cabbage’s shelf life. Trust your senses – foul odors, slimy texture and mold are cues cabbage has spoiled. Pitch heads at the first hint of decay to avoid stomach issues from eating bad cabbage. With proper storage and handling, cabbage can retain freshness for weeks to months past the purchase date.