Does unopened Greek yogurt go bad?
The short answer is that unopened Greek yogurt does not generally go bad. However, once it is opened, the consistency of the yogurt will change. This is because the thick consistency of the yogurt is created by its thick, yogurt-like cream that rises to the top. Once the yogurt is opened, the consistency of the yogurt will change to a thinner consistency. The thinner the consistency of the yogurt, the quicker it will go bad.
Can Greek yogurt go bad if I leave it open?
Yes, left open, unflavored Greek yogurt can go bad. As with any food, yogurt left open at room temperature will start to culture and grow bacteria. While this might sound appealing to those who enjoy fermented foods, bacteria present on the surface of the yogurt can give yogurt an unpleasant or even rancid taste. Even if you allow the yogurt to set up in an open container, you should stir it every few hours to prevent a buildup of bacteria on the surface.
Does unopened Greek yogurt spoil?
As with any yogurt, unopened Greek yogurt can develop bacteria and still have a fine taste. But if opened and left at room temperature, the yogurt will continue to grow bacteria and eventually become rancid. To slow down the growth of bacteria and extend the life of opened yogurt, store the container in the fridge or freeze it.
Does unopened Greek yogurt go sour?
Almost all varieties of Greek yogurt do not sour, regardless of whether or not they have active cultures added. However, there are rare exceptions. For example, some yogurt made with goat milk may naturally sour. You can test this by sampling a small amount. If it tastes sour, you may want to choose a different variety. If you absolutely love the taste of goat milk, you might try adding a sweetener or flavoring to offset the tartness.
How does Greek yogurt go bad if I leave it unopened?
While the bacteria in Greek yogurt does not support the growth of mold, opened packages of Greek yogurt do develop moisture. This moisture combined with warm temperatures can lead to slight mold growth on the surface, which can quickly develop an unpleasant odor.