How to Tell If Your Avocado Has Gone Bad – Signs, Tips, and Storage Hacks

Two main varieties of avocados are especially common. The first is the Hass variety which is one of the most popular worldwide. It’s known for its thick, bumpy skin ranging from dark green to black, and its pear-like shape. Hass avocados are harvested from mid-November to April. The second is the Ettinger variety, which is harvested from mid-September to May.

Avocados are among the most nutritious and versatile fruits. Their creamy texture, mild flavor, and high nutritional value make them a regular feature on the plate. The drawback is that avocados ripen quickly- sometimes too quickly- and without warning, they may already be spoiled.

Signs Your Avocado Has Gone Bad

1. Texture
The most obvious sign is touch. A ripe avocado should yield slightly to gentle pressure. If it feels overly soft, mushy, or the skin dents too easily, it’s probably past its prime. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s harmful, but it is a red flag.

2. Color
The flesh should be light green. If you notice brown spots, black streaks, or areas that seem rotten, the fruit is likely no longer fresh. In some cases, you can cut away the damaged parts, but if the spoilage is widespread, it's best not to risk it.

3. Smell and Taste
A fresh avocado has little to no smell. If it smells sour, sharp, or even glue-like, it's likely starting to ferment. A bitter or overly sour taste also signals spoilage and should be a cue to stop eating it.

4. Mold
If there is any visible mold- white, gray, or green- on the skin or inside the flesh, this indicates that the avocado is spoiled and should be discarded immediately.

How to Keep Your Avocado Fresh

To preserve freshness, store ripe avocados in the fridge. Once cut, coat the exposed flesh with lemon juice or olive oil and store in an airtight container.