Is it safe to eat moldy deli meat?
Quick Answer
No
Eating moldy deli meat is not safe. The mold can produce harmful toxins that can cause food poisoning or other illnesses.
What Is It?
Moldy deli meat refers to processed meat products like ham, turkey, and roast beef that have developed mold, a type of fungus that can grow on food and other organic materials.
How to Tell
Signs of mold on deli meat include visible spots or discoloration, a fuzzy texture, and an off smell.
Why It Can Be Risky
There are several health risks associated with consuming moldy deli meat.
- Food poisoning: Mold can produce toxins that cause food poisoning symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to mold, causing symptoms like itching, rash, and difficulty breathing.
- Respiratory problems: Inhaling mold spores can cause respiratory problems, especially in people with asthma or other lung conditions.
Safe Method?
If you discover mold on deli meat, it’s best to discard the entire product. Unlike hard cheeses where mold can be cut off, mold on deli meat indicates that the entire product may be contaminated.
Safe Alternatives
If you frequently find mold on your deli meat, consider buying smaller quantities more frequently, or opt for canned or frozen meats that have a longer shelf life.
Storage Tips
Store deli meat in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.’, ‘Use opened packages within 3 to 5 days.’, “If you won’t use the meat within this time, freeze it.”]