What Are the Dangers of Out-of-Date Yogurt?

Yogurt is a fermented milk product, in which the bacteria in the milk coagulates to form a thick, custard-like texture. It is favorite breakfast or snack for millions of people all over the world. There are many types of yogurt including plain, sweetened and low fat. People think that because yogurt is formed with bacteria and fermentation it is okay to ingest if it has spoiled. This is not true. You should not consume any food that has gone bad. The Center for Disease Control advocates that consumers follow the expiration dates outlined on all foods. Ingesting expired yogurt can cause you to become very ill.

Stomach Cramps

• Stomach cramps can be painful.

  Developing stomach cramps is one of the first symptoms of a food borne illness, and can result from eating expired yogurt. The stomach has a way of notifying you when things are not quite right, and cramping, rumbling and burping are the most common precursors. However, the cramping can become painful and even intolerable when caused by spoiled food. If you feel severe stomach cramps after you eat expired yogurt, consult a doctor.

Diarrhea

• Diarrhea can be severe.

  Eating expired yogurt can result in diarrhea ranging from mild to severe. Diarrhea is a common symptom of all food borne illnesses. The Center for Disease Control states that food borne illnesses are caused by bacteria that has not been properly handled or stored, especially in preserved foods such as yogurt. Diarrhea can occur almost immediately after ingesting spoiled yogurt. Since yogurt already has good bacteria in it, it's not hard for it to accumulate harmful bacteria that will lead to food borne illness and diarrhea. Diarrhea can become very dangerous, and can be fatal in children and the elderly, so consult a physician if the problem does not go away within twelve hours.

Vomiting

• Vomiting can happen.

  Vomiting will not normally occur without experiencing stomach cramps and diarrhea first. With consumption of spoiled yogurt, as with any food borne illness, your body will try everything to expel the bad food in one way or another. Before the onset of vomiting, you will notice rapid temperature changes and increased salivation in your mouth. Vomiting can become harmful and lead to dehydration, fatigue and weakness. Most food borne illnesses will only last 24 to 48 hours, so if you experience vomiting after 48 hours, seek medical attention.