Can you eat moldy peaches?
Quick Answer
No
Eating moldy peaches can lead to food poisoning. Mold can produce harmful toxins that are not destroyed by cooking.
What Is It?
Moldy peaches are peaches that have been contaminated by mold, a type of fungus that grows in the form of multicellular filaments.
How to Tell
Moldy peaches may have a fuzzy or slimy texture, discoloration, or an off smell. They may also have visible mold growth, which can be in various colors like green, white, or black.
Why It Can Be Risky
Consuming moldy peaches can pose several health risks.
- Food poisoning: Mold can produce harmful toxins that can lead to food poisoning symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to mold, which can cause symptoms like sneezing, itching, and rash.
- Respiratory problems: Inhaling mold spores can lead to respiratory problems, especially in people with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Safe Method?
If a peach has a small spot of mold, you can cut off at least an inch around and below the mold spot. However, if the peach is covered in mold, it’s best to discard it.
Safe Alternatives
If you have moldy peaches, consider buying fresh peaches or canned peaches as an alternative.
Storage Tips
Store peaches in a cool, dry place.’, ‘Avoid storing peaches in a damp or humid environment, as this can promote mold growth.’, ‘Check peaches regularly and remove any that show signs of mold.