Can Ice Go Bad?

Yes, ice can and will go bad. Although it's frozen water, ice isn't immune to contamination and degradation over time.

How Ice Can Go Bad

Several factors contribute to ice going bad:

Contamination: Ice can pick up bacteria, mold, and viruses from its surroundings, including the air, surfaces it touches, and the water used to make it. This is especially true for ice made in environments that aren't regularly cleaned or sanitized. As stated in the references, bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli can contaminate ice.
Absorption of Odors and Flavors: Ice can absorb odors and flavors from its environment, particularly in freezers that contain open containers of food. This can lead to unpleasant-tasting or smelling ice.
Melting and Refreezing: Repeated melting and refreezing can alter the texture and quality of ice, making it cloudy, brittle, and less effective at cooling. It also promotes bacterial growth by providing a liquid medium.

Here are some signs that your ice might have gone bad:

Unusual Taste or Odor: If the ice has a strange taste or smell, it's likely contaminated and should be discarded.
Cloudy Appearance: While not always a sign of spoilage, excessively cloudy or discolored ice can indicate impurities.
Slime or Film: If you notice a slimy or filmy residue on the ice, it's a clear sign of bacterial growth.
Presence of Debris: Any visible debris, such as dirt, hair, or insects, indicates contamination.

Use Clean Water: Always use clean, filtered water to make ice.
Clean Ice Trays and Makers: Regularly clean your ice trays or ice maker with soap and water. You can also use a solution of vinegar and water for sanitizing.
Store Ice Properly: Store ice in an airtight container or bag to prevent it from absorbing odors and flavors from the freezer.
Use Ice Promptly: Don't let ice sit in the freezer for extended periods. Use it within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., a few weeks) to ensure freshness.
Maintain Freezer Hygiene: Keep your freezer clean to prevent contamination of ice.