Can you eat moldy fruit?
Quick Answer
No
Eating moldy fruit can expose you to harmful bacteria and fungi, such as Penicillium, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. While the fruit’s surface may seem safe to eat, mold can penetrate into its interior.
What Is It?
Moldy fruit refers to fruits that have been contaminated by mold, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist conditions. Mold can appear in various colors, including white, green, and black, and can have a fuzzy or slimy texture.
How to Tell
- Visible mold growth on the fruit’s surface
- Unpleasant, musty odor
- Soft, mushy texture
- Discoloration or dark spots
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating moldy fruit carries several risks, primarily due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria and fungi.
- Foodborne illnesses: Certain molds produce mycotoxins, which can cause food poisoning symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to mold, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and rash.
- Respiratory problems: Inhaling mold spores can cause respiratory issues, particularly in individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Safe Method?
If only a small part of a hard fruit like an apple or pear is moldy, you can cut away the moldy part and eat the rest. However, soft fruits like berries or peaches should be discarded entirely if mold is present.
Can You Just Cut It Off?
When cutting away mold from hard fruits, ensure you remove at least 1 inch around and below the mold spot. Do not sniff the moldy part as it can lead to respiratory problems.
Safe Alternatives
If you find mold on one piece of fruit, check the rest of the fruit in the batch. If they’re mold-free and smell and look fresh, you can eat them. Alternatively, consider using canned or frozen fruits, which have a longer shelf life.
Storage Tips
Store fruits in the refrigerator to slow down mold growth.’, “Don’t store fruits in airtight containers as they create a moist environment that promotes mold growth.”, ‘Wash fruits before storing to remove any mold spores.