What causes ghee to smell sour in monsoon?

Question

Learn why your ghee might develop a sour smell during the monsoon. Discover how humidity and moisture contamination can cause it to spoil.

Answer 1

Ghee smells sour in monsoon due to increased humidity and moisture, which promotes the growth of microorganisms that break down fats and release volatile fatty acids, leading to a sour odor.

Detailed Explanation:

During the monsoon season, the atmospheric humidity rises significantly. This increased moisture content creates a favorable environment for the proliferation of bacteria, molds, and other microorganisms. Ghee, being a dairy product composed primarily of fats, is susceptible to microbial degradation. These microorganisms break down the fats in ghee through a process called lipolysis, which releases free fatty acids. Some of these fatty acids, such as butyric acid, have a distinct sour or rancid odor. The higher the humidity and temperature, the faster these microorganisms multiply and the more pronounced the sour smell becomes. Improper storage, such as leaving the ghee exposed to air or moisture, exacerbates the problem.

Pro Tip:

To prevent ghee from turning sour during the monsoon, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. Consider adding a small piece of ginger or a few cloves to the ghee during storage, as these have antimicrobial properties that can help inhibit microbial growth.