How do you know when blue cheese goes bad?

Blue cheese is a unique cheese that's known for its strong flavor and distinctive blue veins. While it's not as perishable as other cheeses, it can still go bad. Here's how to tell if your blue cheese has gone bad:

Signs of Spoiled Blue Cheese:

* Mold growth beyond the blue veins: Blue cheese is intentionally inoculated with mold, but it should be limited to the veins. If you see mold growing on the surface or in areas beyond the veins, it's time to discard it.

* Slimy texture: Blue cheese should be firm and slightly crumbly. If it feels slimy or sticky, it's likely spoiled.

* Strong, unpleasant odor: Blue cheese has a distinctive, pungent aroma. However, if it smells overly sour, ammonia-like, or rancid, it's gone bad.

* Discoloration: While blue cheese naturally has blue veins, the rest of the cheese should be a uniform cream color. If it's discolored or has gray or greenish spots, it may be spoiled.

* Taste: If your blue cheese tastes excessively bitter, sour, or metallic, it's best to throw it away.

Important Note:

* Blue cheese is generally safe to eat even when mold is present in the blue veins. However, it's important to avoid consuming blue cheese with mold growth beyond the veins, as this could indicate spoilage.

Tips for Storing Blue Cheese:

* Proper Storage: Blue cheese should be stored in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or parchment paper.

* Refrigerator Temperature: Keep the refrigerator temperature at 40°F (4°C) or lower to help slow down spoilage.

* Avoid Cross-Contamination: Always use clean utensils and surfaces when handling blue cheese to prevent contamination from other foods.

If you're unsure about the safety of your blue cheese, it's always best to err on the side of caution and discard it.