Why does paneer smell sour even when refrigerated?

Question

Wondering why your paneer smells sour despite being in the fridge? Learn about the potential causes and how to store it for maximum freshness.

Answer 1

Paneer can smell sour even when refrigerated due to lactic acid bacteria growth, which continues slowly even at low temperatures, or improper storage allowing other spoilage bacteria to thrive. This indicates the paneer is likely going bad.

Detailed Explanation:

Paneer, being a fresh cheese, is susceptible to spoilage. The sour smell is primarily caused by the activity of lactic acid bacteria. These bacteria are naturally present in milk and are involved in the cheese-making process. Even under refrigeration, these bacteria continue to metabolize lactose (milk sugar) and produce lactic acid. This lactic acid buildup is what causes the sour odor.

Additionally, improper storage can accelerate spoilage. If the paneer is not stored in an airtight container, it can absorb odors from other foods in the refrigerator and become contaminated with other bacteria or mold spores. These contaminants can further contribute to the sour smell and accelerate the degradation of the paneer. The presence of other bacteria can lead to different types of spoilage, some of which may also produce sour or off-putting odors.

Finally, the initial quality of the milk used to make the paneer plays a role. If the milk was already slightly sour or had a high bacterial load, the resulting paneer will be more prone to spoilage, even with proper refrigeration.

Pro Tip:

To extend the shelf life of paneer, wrap it tightly in a clean, dry cheesecloth or paper towel, then place it in an airtight container in the coldest part of your refrigerator. Change the cheesecloth or paper towel every day or two to absorb excess moisture and prevent bacterial growth.