Can you eat moldy watermelon?
Quick Answer
No
Eating moldy watermelon can lead to food poisoning. Mold can produce harmful toxins that can cause illness.
What Is It?
Moldy watermelon refers to a watermelon that has been contaminated with mold, a type of fungus that can grow on food and other organic materials.
How to Tell
Signs of mold on watermelon include a fuzzy or slimy texture, discoloration, and a musty or sour smell.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating moldy watermelon can pose several health risks.
- Food poisoning: Mold can produce harmful toxins that can cause food poisoning symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to mold, which can cause symptoms such as 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 only a small part of the watermelon is moldy, you can cut off the moldy part and eat the rest. However, if the mold has spread throughout the watermelon, it’s best to throw it away.
Can You Just Cut It Off?
When cutting off moldy parts, make sure to cut at least 1 inch around and below the mold spot. Mold can spread beneath the surface of food.
Safe Alternatives
If your watermelon is moldy, consider buying a fresh one or substitute it with other fruits such as cantaloupe or honeydew melon.
Storage Tips
Store watermelon in a cool, dry place.’, ‘Once cut, store watermelon in the refrigerator to prevent mold growth.’, ‘Use cut watermelon within 3-4 days to ensure freshness.