The ultimate guide: can i eat expired corn tortillas? (spoiler alert: not always!)
What To Know
- Corn tortillas are generally safe to eat for up to a week after they are made, but what happens if you eat expired corn tortillas.
- To reheat corn tortillas in the microwave, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them on high for 30-60 seconds, or until they are heated through.
- If you are unsure whether or not your corn tortillas are still good, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw them away.
Corn tortillas are a staple ingredient in many Mexican dishes. They are made from cornmeal, water, and salt, and are typically cooked on a griddle or comal. Corn tortillas are generally safe to eat for up to a week after they are made, but what happens if you eat expired corn tortillas?
Can I Eat Expired Corn Tortillas?
The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. It depends on a number of factors, including how long the tortillas have been expired, how they have been stored, and whether or not they show any signs of spoilage.
Signs of Spoilage
The following are some signs that corn tortillas have gone bad:
- Mold: Mold is a type of fungus that can grow on food if it is not stored properly. If you see any mold on your corn tortillas, do not eat them.
- Slime: Slime is another sign that corn tortillas have gone bad. If your tortillas are slimy to the touch, do not eat them.
- Sour smell: Corn tortillas that have gone bad may have a sour smell. If your tortillas smell sour, do not eat them.
What Happens if You Eat Expired Corn Tortillas?
If you eat expired corn tortillas, you may experience a number of symptoms, including:
- Food poisoning: Food poisoning is a bacterial infection that can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- Botulism: Botulism is a rare but serious illness that can be caused by eating food that contains botulinum toxin. Symptoms of botulism include double vision, difficulty swallowing, and muscle weakness.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to corn tortillas. Symptoms of a corn allergy include hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
How to Store Corn Tortillas
Corn tortillas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to two months. To freeze corn tortillas, wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
How to Reheat Corn Tortillas
Corn tortillas can be reheated in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven.
- Microwave: To reheat corn tortillas in the microwave, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them on high for 30-60 seconds, or until they are heated through.
- Stovetop: To reheat corn tortillas on the stovetop, heat a griddle or comal over medium heat. Place the tortillas on the griddle and cook them for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are heated through.
- Oven: To reheat corn tortillas in the oven, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake the tortillas for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through.
Wrap-Up
So, can you eat expired corn tortillas? The answer is yes, but only if they are still good. If your corn tortillas show any signs of spoilage, do not eat them. If you are unsure whether or not your corn tortillas are still good, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw them away.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Can I eat corn tortillas that are a few days expired?
If the corn tortillas have been stored properly, they may still be safe to eat a few days after the expiration date. However, it is important to check for any signs of spoilage before eating them.
What are the symptoms of food poisoning from corn tortillas?
Symptoms of food poisoning from corn tortillas include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If you experience any of these symptoms after eating corn tortillas, contact your doctor immediately.
Can I freeze corn tortillas?
Yes, you can freeze corn tortillas for up to two months. To freeze corn tortillas, wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.