Macaroni Salad

If unopened and refrigerated, store-bought macaroni salad typically lasts 3-5 days past the 'sell by' date on the package. Once opened, it should be eaten within 3-5 days. When it comes to homemade macaroni salad, it's best enjoyed within 3-5 days of preparation if kept in the fridge. Frozen macaroni salad can last for 1-2 months but the consistency and quality might be altered due to freezing.

Macaroni salad that has gone bad often has a strong sour or unpleasant smell. The salad can appear darker in color and the consistency can change, with the mayonnaise dressing becoming watery or slimy. Another telltale sign is if the vegetables in the salad have become slimy or overly soft beyond their normal crispness. When in doubt, it's best to avoid eating macaroni salad that you're unsure about.

• Always store macaroni salad in the refrigerator, as it contains ingredients that spoil quickly at room temperature. • For optimal storage, keep macaroni salad in an airtight container to better maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. • If you've made a large batch, consider storing the salad in smaller portions. This way, each serving can be fresh and less exposed to air. • Adding a squeeze of lemon juice to your homemade macaroni salad can help preserve freshness and add an extra layer of flavor. • If you wish to freeze macaroni salad for longer storage, understand that the consistency of the mayonnaise and the pasta might change after thawing. It could come out more watery, but it would still be safe to eat. Defrost in the fridge for a day before serving.