Is moldy pesto safe to eat?
Quick Answer
No
Moldy pesto is not safe to eat. Consuming moldy food can lead to food poisoning and other health risks.
What Is It?
Pesto is a sauce originating from Italy. It’s traditionally made with fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, coarse salt, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Moldy pesto refers to this sauce that has developed mold, usually due to improper storage or being kept for too long.
How to Tell
Moldy pesto may have a fuzzy or slimy texture, discoloration, or an off smell. Visible mold spots, usually green, white, or black, are a clear sign of mold.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating moldy pesto can pose several health risks.
- Food poisoning: Mold can produce harmful toxins that cause food poisoning.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have allergic reactions to mold.
- Respiratory issues: Inhaling mold spores can lead to respiratory problems, especially in people with asthma or allergies.
Safe Method?
If you see mold on your pesto, the safest method is to discard the entire jar. Mold can produce toxins that penetrate deep into the food, so simply removing the visible mold is not enough.
Safe Alternatives
If you find your pesto has gone moldy, consider making a fresh batch at home or buying a new jar from the store.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate pesto immediately after opening or making it.’, ‘Use a clean spoon every time you scoop out pesto.’, ‘Consume opened pesto within 5-7 days for the best quality.