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How to differentiate clean and contaminated tofu to avoid getting sick

Buying delicious tofu also requires some secrets, ladies!

22 February, 2024

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Tofu is an easy-to-buy and inexpensive food, available in the market and supermarkets. It is a vegetarian food that many people love. However, to buy nutritious tofu, women must not forget these 4 things.

1. The color of tofu

Perhaps many women like to buy soft and white tofu bars in the market, right? Who doesn’t want those pure white tofu pieces? But, the whiter the tofu, the more whitening agents it contains and it is not the best type.

Standard tofu will have a light beige color instead of pure white. Tofu is made from light yellow soybeans, so the pure white type will have added whitening agents.

2. Tofu with a too sour smell

In addition to color, the flavor of tofu is also an important factor. Fresh tofu always has a light and fragrant smell from soybeans, even a nutty and creamy scent. More importantly, the shelf life of tofu is not long. If stored for a long time or improperly, tofu will deteriorate and become contaminated with bacteria.

The easiest way to detect spoilt tofu is its strong sour smell. If it smells sour, it means the tofu is spoiled and should not be purchased.

3. Too hard tofu

Firm and smooth tofu pieces, with no visible holes, often attract buyers. However, hard tofu that is too smooth is usually mixed with gypsum, which is not good for health and does not taste good.

Good tofu usually has visible holes and is slightly soft. Only young tofu does not have any visible holes.

4. Sticky tofu

When buying tofu, press it gently and check if it has a certain elasticity and is not sticky to the touch. If it feels sticky and has a slight sliminess, it should not be purchased. If it also has a sour smell, then avoid this type of tofu altogether.

Fresh and good tofu usually has a light and appealing fragrance, and when held or lightly shaken, the tofu pieces are still firm and juicy. That is just the right amount of pressed tofu, while older tofu is a bit firmer.

Source: PNVN

Frequently asked questions

Contaminated tofu will have visible signs of mold, dark spots, or a slimy texture. It may also emit a sour or unpleasant odor. If you encounter any of these signs, discard the tofu immediately as consuming it can lead to food poisoning.

Firstly, always check the expiration date on the package. Secondly, examine the tofu’s appearance; fresh tofu has a uniform color and a smooth, moist surface. Contaminated tofu, as mentioned, will show signs of discoloration, mold, or a slimy texture. It is also wise to rinse the tofu before use to wash away any potential contaminants on the surface.

Proper storage is crucial to keeping your tofu fresh and safe to consume. Tofu is highly perishable, so it should be stored in a sealed container filled with water to cover all surfaces. Change the water daily and store it in the refrigerator. Fresh tofu can be stored this way for up to a week.

Yes, freezing tofu is a great way to extend its shelf life. Drain the excess water and wrap the tofu tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. Frozen tofu can last for several months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator and use it within 2-3 days.

Consuming contaminated tofu can lead to foodborne illnesses, commonly known as food poisoning. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. In severe cases, it can lead to dehydration and require medical attention.