Hummus is a popular dip, but I’m sure you’ve wondered if it goes bad. I know I have! I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve eaten some hummus and then gone back for more before realizing that I had no idea how long it had been in my fridge. So what does happen if we let our hummus go bad?
We’ll discuss this as well as when to ditch the hummus so you don’t have to waste money on unused food or worry about whether your favorite sauce has expired!
Why Hummus goes Bad?
Hummus is made from cooked, mashed chickpeas or garbanzo beans, tahini (a paste made from ground sesame seeds), olive oil, lemon juice and garlic. Some variations also include spices such as cumin, smoked paprika and sumac.
Bacteria can grow in hummus if it’s left out at room temperature or if the lid isn’t properly on the container. The bacteria can cause the hummus to spoil and develop a sour smell and off-flavor. Be sure to check the “use by” date on store-bought hummus containers to know when it’s time to toss them.
Can Gone off Hummus make You Sick?
Hummus that is left out at room temperature or isn’t stored properly can spoil and make you sick. Hummus that has gone bad can cause nausea and vomiting. If you think you’ve eaten some spoiled hummus, it’s best to see your doctor for treatment.
How long can I keep a store-bought hummus in fridge?
Many store-bought hummus brands contain preservatives to help them last longer on the shelf. Store-bought hummus that is stored properly – that is, lid securely on the container to keep out moisture and bacteria and refrigerated – can last anywhere from three to ten days past the “use by” date.
How long can I keep a Homemade Hummus in a Fridge?
A homemade hummus doesn’t contain any preservatives and should be eaten within three to five days of making it. I recommend making a batch every few days so you always have some on hand. It’s delicious, nutritious and much cheaper than buying it from the store!
How long does Sealed Hummus last in a Fridge?
Unopened sealed hummus can last in the refrigerator two months unopened, 7 days once opened. The time needed for the following process may differ considerably if you leave hummus out for lengthy periods of time, especially after opening.Once opened, store hummus in an airtight container and use within five to seven days.
It is best stored as cold as possible since exposure to warm temperature speeds up spoilage time of food products containing oil such as hummus. Hummus will not be safe to eat beyond this period so any leftovers must be discarded at that point.
How long does Hummus last in a Freezer?
Store bought hummuses have preservatives which freeze it. Place hummus in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Hummus can last up to three months in the freezer. I recommend using heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap or a zipper bag if you plan on freezing it for longer than two weeks.
Signs of Spoiled Hummus
Signs that could indicate your hummus has gone bad:
- it tastes sour
Hummus can spoil if it’s left out at room temperature or if the lid isn’t properly on the container. The bacteria can cause the hummus to spoil and develop a sour smell and off-flavor.
- it is watery
If you think your hummus is watery, it may be because the oil separated from the other ingredients during storage. I recommend stirring it well before serving to incorporate all of its flavors together again!
- it tastes fizzy
Fermenting transforms ordinary chickpeas into “super” ones. And there’s more. The chickpeas will be easier to digest and less gassy. Fermentation also adds enzymes and beneficial bacteria, which help with the digestion of not just the chickpeas but also other components in the hummus and other meals.
Nothing to be Missed!
Hummus is one of the simplest and most delicious items to make yourself. With a little bit of basic knowledge, you can enjoy this tasty dip for days after it’s been prepared! If you feel like we’ve missed anything important about storing hummus here, let us know! We want all of our readers to be completely satisfied with their experience reading this blog post.