How do you tell if turkey soup is bad?

Visual Inspection:

* Mold: Look for any fuzzy, greenish-blue growth on the surface or within the soup. Mold is a clear sign of spoilage.

* Color change: If the soup has noticeably changed color, becoming darker or more opaque than usual, it might be off.

* Separation: If the broth and ingredients have separated significantly and the fat has solidified in a thick layer, it's likely gone bad.

Smell Test:

* Sour or rancid smell: A strong, unpleasant, sour or rancid odor is a surefire indication that the soup has spoiled.

Taste Test (Use Caution):

* Sour or bitter taste: If the soup tastes sour, bitter, or otherwise unpleasant, it's a sign of bacterial growth and should be discarded.

Other Signs:

* Off-putting texture: If the soup has an unusual texture, like slimy or stringy, it's probably not safe to eat.

* Unpleasant odor: A foul, musty smell from the container or the soup itself can be a warning sign.

Storage:

* Refrigerator time: Turkey soup, like most leftovers, should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 3-4 days.

* Freezing: You can freeze turkey soup for longer storage, but it may change texture after thawing.

* Thawing: Always thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator, not at room temperature, to minimize bacterial growth.

Important Note: If you have any doubts about the safety of your turkey soup, it's best to err on the side of caution and throw it away. Food poisoning can be serious, so it's not worth the risk.