How To Tell If Your Mushrooms Have Gone Bad

Mushrooms are great to keep around, thanks to their versatility. From topping salads and pizzas to sautéed as a side or to be added to risotto, the mild, nutty flavor of mushrooms can accompany tons of dishes. While mushrooms are great to keep on hand if you really like them, it is important to keep an eye on them to avoid them going to waste.

These fungi are, however, quite fragile and need specific storage to keep for a longer period of time. Mushrooms can become too moist in the refrigerator if not stored properly, as well as absorb the aroma of any other aromatic items like onions or garlic. If there is too much moisture in the storage area, like in the crisper drawer, then mushrooms tend to get moldy and go bad. For long-term storage of more than one week, consider freezing or drying your mushrooms (via The Spruce Eats).

Depending on the type of mushrooms you have, the length of time they can remain good varies. Most whole mushrooms or even cooked mushrooms will stay good in the refrigerator for about one week to 10 days. Sliced mushrooms last a shorter period of time, which is usually five days to one week. Dried mushrooms are the longest lasting mushrooms and can hold for two to three years. They are also great because they can be rehydrated for cooking (via Eat By Date).

While some mushrooms grow mold when they are spoiling, there is one sign that is always a clear indication of bad mushrooms — a slimy film they get when they have gone bad. Sometimes, if it is early enough and the mushrooms are not too slimy, they can still be cooked and used. However, if the mushrooms have gone soft and are very slimy, then they are likely too far past their prime to be consumed (via Cooking Light).

It's always a good idea to buy mushrooms as close as you can to the time at which you plan to eat them to avoid wasting your 'shrooms. Also, keep in mind when shopping that whole mushrooms hold longer.