How to Tell If Tofu Is Bad
Quick answer
Tofu is bad if it smells sour, feels slimy, or has pink, gray, or fuzzy spots. Opened tofu keeps about 3 to 5 days in the fridge in fresh water; unopened keeps until the date on the package.
When in doubt, throw it out. Bacteria that cause food poisoning often don't change the smell or look. Go by the time limits below too.
Signs Tofu has gone bad
- Sour smell. Fresh tofu smells neutral or faintly beany. A tangy, sour, or rotten odor means bacteria have taken over.
- Slimy surface. A slippery film on the block means it has spoiled. Rinsing won't fix it, so toss it.
- Pink, gray, or fuzzy spots. Any colored patch or fuzzy growth is mold or bacteria. Discard the whole block.
- Cloudy, yellow, or foul water. The packing water should be clear. If it's cloudy, sour-smelling, or thick, the tofu is turning.
- Bulging or leaking package. A swollen sealed tub suggests gas from microbial growth. Don't open and sniff it, just throw it out.
Looks weird, but it's fine
- Slightly yellowish tint. Some tofu has a pale cream color from the soybeans. Even color with a clean smell is fine.
- Water in the package. Tofu is packed in water. Pour it off and rinse before using.
- Firm, chewy texture after freezing. Frozen tofu turns sponge-like and tan. That's a texture change that many cooks actually prefer.
How long does Tofu last?
| Where | How long | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge (unopened) | Until the package date | Keep refrigerated at all times |
| Fridge (opened) | 3 to 5 days | Submerged in fresh water, changed daily |
| Freezer | About 5 months | Texture becomes spongier |
How to store it
- Cover leftover tofu with fresh water in an airtight container and change the water every day.
- Write the open date on the container.
- Freeze extra blocks in the package or in cubes for a chewier texture.
Use it up before it turns
Frequently asked questions
How long does tofu last once opened?
Three to five days in the fridge if you submerge it in fresh water and change the water daily. Beyond that, it's safer to toss it.
Can you eat tofu past its expiration date?
It's risky. Because tofu is a moist, protein-rich food, bacteria can grow. If the date has passed or there's any off smell or slime, throw it out.
What does bad tofu smell like?
Sour, like spoiled milk or vinegar. Good tofu is nearly odorless, so a strong smell is a strong warning.
More food freshness guides
General guidance based on USDA FoodKeeper. Storage times are estimates and conditions vary. When in doubt, throw it out.