Sea moss typically lasts about 3 to 4 weeks in the fridge when properly stored. Its longevity depends on factors like the type of sea moss (raw or gel form) and storage conditions. Raw sea moss, when rinsed and kept in an airtight container, can remain fresh for up to a month. Sea moss gel, which is prepared by blending soaked sea moss with water, generally stays good for 2 to 3 weeks due to its higher moisture content, making it more prone to spoilage.

How to Properly Store Sea Moss in the Fridge?

• Raw Sea Moss: Rinse thoroughly to remove debris and salt. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. Keep it dry to prevent premature spoilage.
• Sea Moss Gel: Transfer the gel into a clean, airtight glass container. Avoid using plastic as it may retain odors or allow contaminants. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to keep air and moisture out.
• Temperature: Maintain a consistent fridge temperature of 35°F to 40°F (1°C to 4°C) for optimal preservation.
• Portioning: If you make large batches of gel, consider dividing it into smaller portions to avoid frequent opening and exposure.

Signs That Your Sea Moss Has Gone Bad

• Unpleasant Smell: Fresh sea moss has a neutral to slightly oceanic scent. A sour or rotten smell indicates spoilage.
• Texture Changes: Spoiled sea moss may become slimy or excessively mushy, especially in its gel form.
• Color Alteration: Fresh sea moss gel is typically light-colored (golden, white, or green). If it darkens or develops patches of mold, it’s no longer safe.
• Taste: A bitter or off-taste is another sign of spoilage.
• Presence of Mold: Visible mold growth, such as black, green, or white spots, signals that the sea moss is no longer consumable.

Factors Affecting Sea Moss Longevity

• Storage Conditions: Proper refrigeration and airtight containers significantly extend the shelf life. Exposure to air and fluctuating temperatures accelerates spoilage.
• Type of Sea Moss: Gel form deteriorates faster than raw sea moss due to higher moisture levels.
• Preparation Hygiene: Contaminants introduced during rinsing or blending can shorten its lifespan. Use clean utensils and purified water.
• Moisture Levels: Excess moisture fosters bacterial growth, leading to faster decay. Keep raw sea moss as dry as possible.
• Additives: Some people mix sea moss gel with honey, fruit, or other ingredients. These can reduce its longevity, as natural sugars may ferment over time.

Tips To Maximize Freshness Of Sea Moss

• Use Clean Tools: Always use sanitized containers, utensils, and clean hands during preparation to avoid contamination.
• Opt for Glass Containers: Store sea moss gel in glass jars with tight lids to maintain freshness and avoid absorption of odors.
• Portion and Freeze: Divide the gel into smaller portions and freeze what you don’t need immediately. Frozen sea moss gel can last up to 3 months.
• Minimize Air Exposure: Limit the number of times you open the container to reduce air exposure.
• Refrigerate Promptly: Place sea moss in the fridge as soon as possible after rinsing or preparing the gel.

What Happens if You Consume Expired Sea Moss? Eating expired sea moss can pose several risks:

• Digestive Issues: Spoiled sea moss may contain harmful bacteria, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Food Poisoning: Mold or microbial contamination can cause severe foodborne illnesses, particularly in vulnerable individuals.
• Reduced Nutritional Value: As sea moss deteriorates, its nutrient content may degrade, offering fewer health benefits.
• Allergic Reactions: Consuming spoiled sea moss may trigger unexpected allergic responses, such as skin irritation or difficulty breathing, due to bacterial byproducts or toxins. To avoid these risks, always check for signs of spoilage before use. If in doubt, discard it.