I’m a teen and I suspect that the corn oil we are using has gone bad. I can taste it and I can smell it while it’s cooking. How do I test it?

hello eeee I am experiencing the same thing as well with my family but just me, my siblings, and now my mom. Have you recovered already from that experience?

There isn't any way to specifically test oil to scientifically test oil at home. However, your nose and taste buds remain the best ways to detect when oil has gone- or is going - rancid. It takes on a strong odor and taste, both unpleasant. Some people are more sensitive to these gradual changes than others, which might be why you are the only one currently detecting it. The only thing you can do is suggest that it is time to replace the bottle with a fresh one. In case the reason for not replacing it is because it would waste the old bottle- there are ways to use that so it's not a wasted item. Old oil can be used combined with vinegar to clean, polish and lubricate wood items (not your cutting board though!) like chairs or furniture. It can also clean and polish metal or metal tools, or wicker baskets/furniture. Old vegetable oils can also be burned in a lamp just like lamp oil or kerosene. Drops of it will lubricate and silence squeeky hinges, too. Perhaps if you suggest alternative uses for it, rather than just tossing it- you can convince the family to replace that bottle with a fresh one. Oil usually lasts about a year, if tightly capped and stored dark and relatively cool. However, you can also increase the life of oil you will not use frequently- or if your kitchen is usually very warm- by putting it in the refrigerator. This won't keep it good forever, but it helps. It will thicken and cloud when cold, but should come back to a liquid state fairly quickly at room temperature when you need to use it.