Can I still eat goji berries if they have changed color and become soft?
Disease description:
I bought a pack of goji berries not long ago, intending to brew them as tea. After opening the pack, I used them a few times and then stored them in the cabinet. Today when I opened them again, I noticed the color had changed. I'm wondering if goji berries are still safe to consume after they change color and become softer.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Discolored goji berries can still be consumed in the absence of obvious abnormalities, although their nutritional value may be somewhat reduced. Color changes in goji berries may be manifested as a transformation from their original bright red to dark red or black.
This change may be caused by prolonged storage, a humid environment, or oxidation. If the goji berries are stored in dry and light-protected conditions, color changes do not necessarily indicate spoilage; however, it is still necessary to check for signs of spoilage such as an unusual odor or mold spots.
If the goji berries have severely discolored, become soft, or developed mold spots, unpleasant odors, or signs of rotting, these changes indicate microbial contamination, and consumption may pose a risk to human health.
Provided they are safe for consumption, slightly discolored and softened goji berries can still be used as ingredients for medicinal dishes. However, heavily spoiled goji berries should be avoided to ensure health. In daily life, proper storage is key to preventing spoilage. It is recommended to store goji berries in a sealed, dry, and cool place to extend their shelf life.
