Does Kimchi Go Bad?

Talking about does Kimchi expire? While it does not come with an expiry date, that does not mean it can stay good forever. Since Kimchi is made with various vegetables and spices, Yes, Kimchi can go bad and it should be consumed within 1-2 months for best quality. Though the salt content in it keeps it good for a few days but it does not last forever. Rather, kimchi shelf life depends on may factors such as storage temperature, container type and the ingredients used.

How Long Is Kimchi Good For?

Just like we said, kimchi’s life solely depends upon its storage conditions. The shelf life can vary a little like:

  • If kept at room temperature, it will last for 1 week after opening.
  • Likewise, if it is kept in the fridge, it stays fresh for about 3–6 months after opening but since it will continue to ferment this may lead to a sourer taste of kimchi.
  • Talking about How long it lasts out of the fridge, if stored in the refrigerator with the lid tightly in its place, it will stay good and completely edible for up to 3 months at least, as long as there’s no mold in it because that indicates spoilage.
  • Furthermore, If you have already opened the kimchi dish jar and you are planning to keep it on the shelf, it will ferment in 3 to 4 days at room temperature and will probably stay good for 5 to 7 days.

How To Tell That Kimchi Has Expired?

Does kimchi go bad


Scientifically, the spoilage of kimchi dish and found that spoilage was primarily caused by the growth of undesirable microorganisms such as yeasts and molds, and that spoilage was accompanied by changes in color, texture, and PH level. Considering which, you should see, smell, see and taste and figure out the changes like mentioned below:

1. Smell

If the kimchi dish has a strong, sour, or off smell, it is likely that it has spoiled and should be discarded.

2. Mold

If you notice any mold growing on the surface of the kimchi, it is not safe to eat and should be discarded.

3. Texture

If the kimchi dish is slimy or has a mushy texture, it is likely that it has spoiled and should be discarded.

4. Color

If the kimchi has changed color, such as becoming darker or discolored, it is likely that it has spoiled and should be discarded.

5. Taste

If the kimchi has a sour taste or does not taste like it used to, it is likely that it has spoiled and should be discarded.

How To Store Kimchi?

Does kimchi go bad

Luckily, storing kimchi isn’t hassle if you consider the some handy and best methods to store it with the reasons. In fact, there has been studies conducted that suggested that storing kimchi in a vacuum-sealed bag at 4°C (39°F) resulted in the least amount of spoilage and the best overall quality. (Reference link 1)

1. Keep kimchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator

It helps to slow down the fermentation process. During fermentation, kimchi produces carbon dioxide, which can build up pressure in a container that is not airtight. This can cause the lid to pop off or create a mess in your refrigerator.

2. You may also consider to store it in alright container

That will prevent kimchi from absorbing any unwanted smells or odors from other foods stored in the refrigerator which will eventually keep the it fresh and flavorful for a longer period of time.

3. Make sure the kimchi is fully submerged in its liquid

When kimchi is fermented, it produces a liquid called “kimchi juice” which is a combination of the juice from the vegetables and the brine used to preserve the kimchi. This liquid helps to keep the kimchi fresh and flavorful. Thus, kimchi should be covered by the kimchi juice otherwise, it can dry out or become exposed to air, which can cause it to spoil more quickly.

4. Keep it away from sunlight or hot

The reason being is that sunlight and heat can speed up the fermentation process that converts sugars in the kimchi into lactic acid and carbon dioxide, which gives kimchi its tangy flavor and preservation.

But, keeping kimchi container in a cool and dark place helps to slow down the fermentation process and preserve the kimchi for a longer period of time, giving you the best quality and taste. In fact, it would be a good idea, if you keep the kimchi in the lower shelf of your refrigerator where the temperature is more stable and consistent

What Happens If You Eat Expired Kimchi?

Since studies says that it can grow microorganisms like yeast or mold, hence, consuming expired kimchi an lead to symptoms such as stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Can You Eat Slimy Kimchi?

Storing kimchi in the fridge decreases the rate at which it rips. But it is completely safe to eat unripe kimchi as it will not cause you any trouble just like unripe fruits don’t.

What Does Rotten Kimchi Look Like?

Rotten kimchi looks like it has got some bacteria in it. the kimchi jar will be covered with a white layer atop and it will look like it has got molds in it. The rotten kimchi smells bad too and shouldn’t be consumed at all.

Can You Get Botulism From Kimchi?

Not at all because fermenting creates an environment in the food where botulism cannot survive and hence it doesn’t like it. That is why you can’t get botulism from eating kimchi since kimchi is also a fermented food and fermentation creates an environment that is antagonistic to botulism. That’s all folks. Now you can not only save your kimchi from getting bad by storing it appropriately but you can also enjoy it without any questions in your mind.


FAQs

Q1. What Is Kimchi?

Ans. Made with lots of salt and fermented vegetables like napa cabbage, spring onions, garlic, ginger, jeotgal, Korean radish, and a wide selection of seasonings, Kimchi is a world-famous dish that originated in Korean cuisine and is a traditional Korean staple food. It can be eaten as it is or can be added to rice, eggs, a variety of soups, topped on grain bowls, turned into pasta sauce, or make a stew from it.

Q2. Does Kimchi Go Bad In The Fridge? 

Ans. Kimchi is Last for 3 To 6 months In The Fridge 

Q3. How Long Does Kimchi Last After Opening?

Ans. Kimchi is Good For A Week After Opening.

Conclusion:

Even though kimchi is a world-famous food, it still goes bad. But that does not mean you cannot slow down this process and save your kimchi from going bad. Storing kimchi right will keep it fir for consumption for some extra days. Also, it is fine to eat kimchi that tastes fizzy, sour and mushy as long as it smells and tastes good and doesn’t have molds in it. Further, if you are a pizza lover then you might want to know more about pizza.

Reference:

Our mission is to provide accurate and researched insights to our readers. Thus, we wish to share the references of the studies conducted on the subject matter for detailed read for our readers to refer:

  1. Research Gate: Effect of vacuum packaging and storage temperature on the quality of kimchi

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