How to Know When an Eggplant Has Spoiled

There are many different types of eggplants available in a variety of colors. Green, lavender, light yellow, and orange eggplants of various sizes provide nutrients and add flavor to dishes around the globe. Eggplants tend to spoil quickly, which compromises taste and nutritional value. Understanding the difference between a fresh and a spoiled eggplant can make or break a meal. There are some simple observations you can make to help determine if an eggplant has spoiled.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Knife

1. Note the skin color of the eggplant. The color should be bright and there should be a shine to the skin. A dull and faded eggplant skin can indicate that the vegetable has spoiled.

2. Look for a brightly colored cap and stem on the eggplant. If the stem is not a bright and healthy green, the eggplant may not be fresh.

3. Check the skin of the eggplant for firmness. Gently press on the skin and look for any indentations that occur. If indentations remain in the skin, the eggplant is likely spoiled.

4. Look for bruises, soft spots or signs of decay on the skin and stem of the eggplant. If trouble spots are present, the vegetable is no longer fresh and should not be cooked.

5. Pick up the eggplant and determine if it is dense for its size. Fresh eggplants have a heaviness to them, while spoiled eggplants feel light.

6. Cut the eggplant open and look for healthy seeds and spongy meat. If the inside of the eggplant is discolored, mushy, moldy or has a strong bitter odor, it is spoiled and should be discarded.

Tips & Warnings

• Store eggplant in a plastic bag in the refrigerator's crisper.
• Do not wash or cut an eggplant before storing. Avoid bruising or breaking the skin of an eggplant, as this can lead to spoiling.

References

• The World's Healthiest Foods

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