Is it ok to eat moldy cottage cheese?
Quick Answer
No
Eating moldy cottage cheese is not safe. The mold could produce harmful toxins that can cause food poisoning.
What Is It?
Moldy cottage cheese is cottage cheese that has been contaminated with mold, a type of fungus. It can appear as spots of various colors on the surface of the cheese.
How to Tell
Signs of mold in cottage cheese include discoloration, a foul smell, and a change in texture. The cheese may also have a slimy or fuzzy surface.
Why It Can Be Risky
Consuming moldy cottage cheese can pose several health risks.
- Food poisoning: Mold can produce toxins that cause food poisoning, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Allergic reactions: Some people are allergic to mold and can experience symptoms like itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
- Respiratory problems: Inhaling mold spores can cause respiratory problems, especially in people with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Safe Method?
If you find mold on your cottage cheese, the safest method is to throw the entire container away. Mold can spread throughout the cheese, even if it’s not visible on the surface.
Safe Alternatives
If you’re out of fresh cottage cheese, consider using other types of cheese like ricotta or cream cheese as a substitute.
Storage Tips
Store cottage cheese in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.’, ‘Keep the cheese in its original container with a tight lid.’, ‘Use the cheese within one week of opening the container.