Kamil Perry
Eating bad cheese can lead to foodborne illnesses and other health issues. The consequences depend on the type of cheese, the amount consumed, and individual susceptibility. Mild symptoms include nausea, diarrhoea, and an upset stomach, while moderate symptoms include fever, abdominal cramps, and vomiting. These symptoms are caused by harmful bacteria and toxins in the cheese. Severe symptoms, resulting from dangerous bacteria like Listeria or E. coli, include kidney failure, meningitis, and sepsis. Proper storage and handling of cheese are crucial to prevent spoilage and reduce health risks. While some molds on cheese are safe and even desirable, like in Blue Cheese, thick coatings of mold or noticeable changes in smell or taste may indicate spoilage. If you experience any adverse symptoms after consuming cheese, it is important to seek medical attention.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Symptoms | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, upset stomach |
| Severity | Depends on the type and amount of spoiled cheese consumed, as well as an individual's susceptibility to foodborne illnesses |
| Prevention | Proper handling and storage, checking the expiration date |
| Mold | Can be safely cut away from harder, aged cheeses like cheddar or parmesan; soft cheeses like Brie or Port Salut should have about a quarter inch cut away from any moldy surface |
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What You'll Learn
Food poisoning symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, fever
Eating bad cheese can lead to food poisoning, which can be caused by contaminated food infected with toxic organisms such as bacteria, fungi, parasites, or viruses. The symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and fever. These symptoms can vary in severity depending on the type and amount of spoiled cheese consumed, as well as an individual's susceptibility to foodborne illnesses.
Nausea is an uncomfortable feeling of sickness in the stomach, which may lead to vomiting. Vomiting is the body's way of purging toxins from contaminated food. It is important to stay hydrated if you are experiencing nausea and vomiting. Diarrhoea is also a common symptom of food poisoning, and it can lead to a loss of fluids and important electrolytes. Therefore, it is crucial to drink plenty of fluids and consider hydration formulas with balanced electrolytes, such as Pedialyte™.
Stomach cramps are another symptom of food poisoning. These cramps can be painful and uncomfortable. In addition to stomach cramps, you may also experience a fever, which is a raised body temperature. A fever over 102°F is considered a sign of severe food poisoning. It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing a fever, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms of food poisoning.
The severity of food poisoning symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection. Some bacterial infections can take effect within a few hours, while others may take days or even weeks to incubate and become toxic. It is important to note that anyone can get food poisoning from eating contaminated food, but some individuals may be more susceptible to foodborne illnesses.
To prevent eating bad cheese, it is important to practise proper handling and storage. Check the expiration date, store cheese at the recommended temperature and humidity level, and always use clean utensils and cutting boards. Additionally, avoid touching the cheese with your hands, as this can introduce bacteria and other microorganisms. By following these precautions, you can reduce the risk of consuming spoiled cheese and experiencing food poisoning symptoms.
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Preventing cheese from spoiling: proper handling and storage
Cheese is a dairy product that is highly susceptible to spoilage. It can be contaminated by bacteria, mould, or other microorganisms during the production process or due to improper storage conditions. Therefore, it is important to take the proper precautions when handling and storing cheese to avoid any health risks associated with consuming spoiled cheese.
When buying cheese, always check the expiration date and avoid buying cheese that is close to its expiration date. Cheese should be stored at a specific temperature and humidity level to prevent it from spoiling. The ideal temperature range for storing cheese is between 34°F and 45°F. A refrigerator should always be below 40°F to maintain food safety.
Once a block of cheese is opened, it has a shortened shelf life. It is recommended to use cheese paper or wax paper to wrap the cheese, as this allows the cheese to breathe and prevents unwanted air from entering. Parchment paper can also be used, followed by a layer of aluminium foil or a partially sealed plastic bag. Cheese paper is a two-ply paper made of wax-coated paper and a thin porous polyethylene plastic, which allows moisture to wick but not totally escape.
To prevent mould growth, it is important to keep the refrigerator clean and maintain a consistent temperature. Different types of cheese should be stored separately to prevent cross-contamination of mould. Additionally, always use clean utensils and cutting boards, and avoid touching the cheese with your hands to reduce the introduction of bacteria and other microorganisms.
Another simple trick to keep cheese fresh is to use a vinegar-dampened towel. The vinegar has antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties, preventing the growth of bacteria and mould. It also helps to maintain the right level of humidity by preventing the cheese from drying out.
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How to tell if cheese is bad: sight, smell, taste
Eating cheese that has gone bad can lead to foodborne illnesses. The symptoms of food poisoning from consuming spoiled cheese include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. The severity of these symptoms depends on the type and amount of spoiled cheese consumed, as well as an individual's susceptibility to foodborne illnesses. Therefore, it is important to be able to tell if cheese has gone bad.
Sight
The appearance of cheese can indicate whether it has gone bad. If the cheese has changed too much from its original appearance, it might be time to discard it. For example, if you notice patches of different types of fuzz in different colours or textures, that's a sign that the cheese has gone bad. However, some cheeses, like French soft cheeses, have a white, fuzzy exterior that is safe to eat. Therefore, it is important to research what the cheese is supposed to look like before discarding it.
Smell
How a cheese smells is one of the best ways to determine whether it is safe to eat. If a mild cheese, like Monterey Jack or American, smells strong, like blue cheese or Limburger, then it has likely gone bad. Cheeses that are naturally pungent, like blue cheese or Camembert, will have a strong ammonia smell, similar to cat urine, when they go bad. If the cheese smells like a much more concentrated version of what you're used to, it's probably no longer safe to eat.
Taste
When all else fails, you might have to taste a small piece of the cheese to tell if it has gone bad. If the cheese tastes sour or has an unpleasant aftertaste, it has likely gone bad. However, it is important to note that consuming spoiled cheese can be dangerous, so tasting it should be a last resort.
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Cheese expiration dates: when to avoid buying
Cheese is a dairy product that can go bad if not handled properly. Eating bad cheese can lead to foodborne illnesses, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. The severity of these symptoms depends on the type and amount of spoiled cheese consumed, as well as an individual's susceptibility to foodborne illnesses.
To avoid buying cheese that has gone bad, it is recommended to check the expiration date and avoid buying cheese that is close to its expiry. However, it is important to note that expiration dates on cheese are not always accurate, and properly stored cheese can last beyond its expiration date. Vacuum-sealed cheeses, for example, can remain edible for months or even a year past their "best-by" date.
When determining whether cheese has gone bad, it is essential to use your senses, especially sight, smell, and taste. If a mild cheese like Monterey Jack or American smells strong, like blue cheese or Limburger, it has likely gone bad. Cheeses that are naturally pungent, like blue cheese or Camembert, will have a strong ammonia smell once they go bad, similar to cat urine. If you notice any slimy mold or pinkish, reddish patches on fresh cheeses like Mozzarella, it is best to throw them out.
Harder, aged cheeses tend to last longer in the fridge, with most lasting four to six months if stored correctly. Soft, less mature cheeses have a shorter fridge life and should be consumed quickly as they are more susceptible to mold growth due to their high moisture content.
Proper storage is crucial to prevent cheese from spoiling. Cheese should be stored at the appropriate temperature and humidity level, as indicated on the label. Always use clean utensils and cutting boards, and avoid touching the cheese with your hands to prevent the introduction of bacteria and other microorganisms.
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What to do if you suspect food poisoning
Food poisoning can occur from eating contaminated cheese or other foods. The symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. These symptoms can vary in severity, depending on individual susceptibility to foodborne illnesses, the type and amount of spoiled food consumed, and other factors. If you suspect food poisoning, it is important to take the following steps:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of liquids to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. If you are vomiting, sip small amounts of clear liquids frequently. Oral rehydration solutions such as Pedialyte or Naturalyte can be helpful for severe cases or for older adults with weakened immune systems.
- Seek medical attention: Consult a doctor, especially if your symptoms are severe or persistent. They can diagnose the problem and prescribe appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections. Do not hesitate to seek medical advice if you are concerned about your health.
- Report to authorities: If you believe your illness is a result of consuming contaminated food, report it to your local health department. They can investigate the source and take necessary actions to prevent others from getting sick.
- Prevent further contamination: Properly dispose of any food you suspect may be contaminated. Clean and sanitize your kitchen surfaces, utensils, and cutting boards to prevent the spread of bacteria or other microorganisms.
- Practice food safety: To prevent food poisoning, follow safe food handling and storage practices. Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from other foods. Cook foods thoroughly and store them properly to prevent spoilage. Check expiration dates and recall notices to ensure the food you consume is safe.
It is important to act promptly if you suspect food poisoning and to prioritize your health by taking food safety seriously. These steps can help manage symptoms, prevent further contamination, and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
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Frequently asked questions
Eating bad cheese can lead to foodborne illnesses and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. These symptoms can vary in severity depending on the type and amount of spoiled cheese consumed, as well as an individual's susceptibility to foodborne illnesses.
The best tools to determine whether your cheese has gone bad are your senses, especially sight, smell, and taste. If a mild cheese smells strong, like blue cheese or Limburger, it has likely gone bad. Cheeses that are naturally pungent, like blue cheese or Camembert, will have a strong ammonia smell once they go bad. If you start noticing patches of different types of fuzz in different colours or textures, that's a sign that the cheese has gone bad.
If you suspect that you have eaten bad cheese, seek medical attention immediately. A doctor will be able to diagnose the problem and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
To prevent cheese from going bad, it is important to practice proper handling and storage. Always check the label for proper storage instructions, use clean utensils and cutting boards, and avoid touching the cheese as this can introduce bacteria and other microorganisms.
