So, how to tell if corn on the cob is bad?
Cooking corn on the cob is a delicious, simple way to add a bit of summertime sunshine to any meal. Whether you’re adding it to your family’s favorite taco night or using it as an easy side dish for grilled meats, learning how to tell if corn on the cob has gone bad can help ensure that your creations live up to their full potential.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the basics of determining whether fresh sweet corn on the cob is still safe and tasty or if it needs to be tossed in order for everyone around your dinner table—or barbeque—to enjoy their meals sans tummy troubles!
Read on and learn how to tell if corn on the cob is bad!
Corn on the Cob: How Long Does It Last?
When stored properly, corn on the cob should last for 4–7 days. It’s important to note that the longer it sits in your fridge, the more flavor and texture will be lost. So if you’re looking for maximum flavor and crunch, try to use up your fresh sweet corn within a week of buying (or picking) it.
Keep reading to learn how to tell if corn on the cob is bad!
How to Tell If Corn on The Cob Is Bad?
Are you ready for our big question: how to tell if corn on the cob is bad? If you take a peek at your sweet corn and notice any of the following signs, then it’s time for it to go:
- Mold spots on the kernels or husks
- Strong, unpleasant odors
- Mushy or discolored kernels
- Wilting husks.
Above are common signs that your fresh corn has gone bad. Actually, to tell if corn on the cob has gone bad, it depends on how it is cooked.
How Can You Tell If Grilled Corn on The Cob Is Bad?
If you’re having an ear of grilled corn, how to tell if corn on the cob is bad?
The same signs of spoilage outlined above also apply. If you notice any discoloration, mold spots, or a sour smell when you take your corn off the grill, it’s best to steer clear and discard it as soon as possible—just like you would if it were stored in its husk.
To Boiled Corn on The Cob, How to Tell If Corn on The Cob Is Bad?
So, how can you realize that your boiled corn on the cob has gone bad?
When it comes to boiled corn on the cob, the process is largely the same as when it comes to grilled or stored corn. In addition to looking for signs of spoilage such as discoloration and mold spots, also be mindful of how your boiled corn tastes—a sour or unpleasant taste can indicate that the corn has gone bad and needs to be discarded immediately.
How to Tell If Soup of Corn on The Cob Is Gone Bad?
Finally, how to tell if the soup of corn on the cob is bad?
You should be able to rely on the same signs of spoilage outlined above. If you notice any discoloration, mold spots, or a sour smell when you take your corn out of the soup, it’s best to steer clear and discard it as soon as possible. You can also taste the soup before consuming it—if it tastes off in any way, then it may be best to throw it out and start over with fresh ingredients.
What Happens If You Eat Rotten Corn on The Cob?
If you eat rotten corn on the cob, you may experience gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms of food poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, can occur within a few hours after ingesting the contaminated food. In rare cases, more serious complications may arise, leading to hospitalization. That’s why it’s important to properly inspect your corn on the cob before eating it.
Dish You Should Cook Corn of The Cob for Long-term Storing
Now you know how to tell if corn on the cob is bad. So how do you make your corn on the cob last as long as possible?
One of the best ways to ensure that your sweet corn stays fresh for longer is by cooking it in a dish—such as creamed or grilled corn, corn chowder, or grilled Mexican street-style food. These dishes can usually be stored in your refrigerator for up to four days and still retain their full flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a way to extend how long your sweet corn lasts after purchasing it, these dishes may just be the answer.
Ways to Store Corn on The Cob
Let’s figure out several ways to store your corn before knowing how to tell if corn on the cob is bad. Well, the best way to store corn on the cob is in its husk, unwashed, and refrigerated. This will help keep moisture off the kerneled corncobs and prevent any premature molding or spoilage. You can also wrap them in plastic before placing them in your refrigerator if you need extra protection from humidity.
Now that we’ve covered how to properly store corn on the cob, let’s move on to how to tell if it’s gone bad!
Tips for Preserving Corn on The Cob
The answer to the question “how to tell if corn on the cob is bad ?” has been disclosed. If you’re looking for tips on how to preserve corn on the cob and make it last, here are a few ideas:
- Store fresh corn in its husk, unwashed, and refrigerated.
- Wrap them in plastic before placing them in your refrigerator if you need extra protection from humidity.
- Cook it in dishes such as creamed or grilled corn, corn chowder, or grilled Mexican street-style clothes. These dishes can usually be stored in your refrigerator for up to four days and still retain their full flavor and texture.
- Eat sweet corn within a week of buying (or picking) it.
FAQs of How to Tell If Corn on The Cob Is Bad
How does rotten corn on the cob appear?
Bad corn on the cob usually has discolored, mushy kernels, mold spots on the kernels or husks, and a strong, unpleasant odor.
Can you eat bad corn on the cob?
No, it is not safe to eat bad corn on the cob. If you notice any of the signs of spoilage outlined above, then it’s best to discard it as soon as possible.
When should I throw out sweet corn?
Ideally, sweet corn should be eaten within a week of buying (or picking) it. However, if you notice any signs of spoilage, such as discoloration, mold spots, or a sour smell when you take your corn off the grill or out of its husk, it’s best to discard it as soon as possible. As always, be sure to check the use-by date on your corn before consuming it.
Can I cook corn on the cob with milk?
Yes, you can cook corn on the cob with milk! Many recipes call for boiling or simmering sweet corn in a mixture of butter, salt, pepper, and milk. This method allows all of the flavors to come together and makes for an incredibly flavorful side dish.
How long does chilled corn on the cob stay fresh?
It depends on how it is stored. If you store your fresh corn in its husk, unwashed, and refrigerated, it should last for up to two weeks.
On the other hand, if you prepare your sweet corn in a dish like creamed or grilled corn, corn chowder, or grilled Mexican street food, these dishes can typically be kept in your refrigerator for up to four days while still tasting and feeling fresh.
As always, be sure to check the use-by date on your corn before consuming it.
Conclusion
Knowing how to tell if corn on the cob is bad is important for preserving its freshness and flavor. Be mindful of how your boiled, grilled, or stored corn looks and smells. If you notice any discoloration, mold spots, or a sour smell when you take your corn off the grill or out of its husk, it’s best to discard it as soon as possible. Finally, ensure that you store your sweet corn in its husks and eat it within a week of buying (or picking) it for optimal results.
With these tips from Dixies Home Cookin, you can enjoy the sweet and juicy flavor of corn on the cob for longer. Bon Appetit!
