How to Tell If Mayonnaise Is Bad

Signs Mayonnaise has gone bad

1. Sour or rancid smell. Fresh mayo smells tangy and mild. A sharp, rotten, or oily smell means the oils or eggs have spoiled.
2. Yellow or brown discoloration. Mayo should be creamy white to pale ivory. Darkening or yellowing signals oxidation or spoilage.
3. Watery separation. A pool of liquid with a curdled or lumpy texture means the emulsion has broken, a sign of age or temperature abuse.
4. Mold. Black, green, or white fuzzy spots mean the jar is spoiled. Discard it, since mold can spread unseen.
5. Left out more than 2 hours. Mayo-based dishes like potato salad and sandwiches left out for more than 2 hours (1 hour above 90°F) should be discarded.

Looks weird, but it's fine

• Cool, firm texture straight from the fridge. Mayo thickens when chilled and loosens at room temperature.
• Slight color change at the edges. A touch of surface darkening from air exposure can happen, but if the smell is off, don't use it.
• Tiny air bubbles. Air bubbles from scooping are normal and not a sign of spoilage.

How long does Mayonnaise last?

How to store it

• Always use a clean spoon or knife, never one that's touched other food.
• Return mayo to the fridge right after use.
• Don't freeze it, since the emulsion separates.

Use it up before it turns

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Frequently asked questions

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