Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
Dates are a fruit that is commonly consumed as an appetizer during the holy month of Ramadan. But make sure to check the characteristics of dates that are not suitable for consumption.
Even though they have a myriad of benefits and a sweet taste, the quality of dates can also decrease so that they are no longer suitable for consumption. Then what are the characteristics?
Dates became a snack recommended by the Prophet SAW. Muslims flock to buy dates in the month of Ramadan.
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However, you should not buy random dates. Pay attention to the dates you want to buy, whether the dates are fresh and of good quality for consumption or not.
The reason is, dried dates will lack water and tend not to become moldy so they can last for a very long time.
According to the Tasting Table, fresh dates can last up to six months in the refrigerator in a closed container and remain open for a full year. Meanwhile, dried dates that are not put in the refrigerator can last for six months. Dried dates put in the freezer can last up to three years.
If you store dates improperly, mold and bacteria can grow on them, causing them to spoil.
Launching Cully’s Kitchen, here are some characteristics of dates that are not suitable for consumption that need to be watched out for.
1. Bau
When dates go bad, the stench is the first thing you’ll notice. The fruit has a faint, neutral aroma, but will give off an unpleasant rotten or alcoholic smell once it goes bad.
Photo: CNN Indonesia/Astari Kusumawardhani
2. Change color
Another feature of dates that are not suitable for consumption is the discoloration of the fruit. Dates that have darkened or have pale spots on the surface are no longer suitable for consumption. Sometimes, discoloration is accompanied by a moldy appearance.
3. Too Sticky
When the dates become sticky and slimy, it is a warning to throw them away. When combined with other characteristics of rotten dates, consuming them is not a good idea.
4. Taste changes
The taste of dates, like their quality, will degrade over time. On the other hand, safe dates do not have a bitter or sour taste. If the taste has changed significantly, throw away the remaining dates in the package.
5. Mushrooms
It is not uncommon for dates that are still edible to be thrown away after detecting white spots on the surface and mixed with mold. Mold is a sure sign of bad dates, but this is always accompanied by a change in aroma, color and texture.
Those are some of the characteristics of dates that are not suitable for consumption. Make sure the dates remain edible and stored in the right way.
(del/chs)
(Gambas:Video CNN)