butternut squash...ok to eat or not?

[ProudGrandma]

how do I know if a butternut squash is not ok to use? I have one left in the basement...it's not moldy or anything, but the outside is wrinkly and the inside is not as firm as it should be. OK to cook or not?

[MEmama]

IME inedible squash makes itself clearly known (slimy and stinky). Yours sounds slightly neglected but as long as the innatds don't smell bad or have an off putting texture it should be fine to eat.

[ProudGrandma]

56 minutes ago, MEmama said:

IME inedible squash makes itself clearly known (slimy and stinky). Yours sounds slightly neglected but as long as the innatds don't smell bad or have an off putting texture it should be fine to eat.

ok...thanks.  It doesn't smell or is slimy....just a bit soft....I think I will cook it and then taste a little bit...to see if it tastes "normal"....I would think it wouldn't if it was bad, right?  

[MEmama]

Yeah, I think you'll know.

I hope it's still yummy for you!

[Farrar]

They keep for ages if they don't get a cut or have something in them. I agree that you'll know the moment you open it up if it's gone off. As long as it's semi-firm (even if it's wilted a tiny bit) and not smelly, it's safe and fine. Roast it up and toss it in something. It doesn't even lose its flavor as much as other produce that keeps a long time, like potatoes.