Is moldy relish safe to eat?
Quick Answer
No
Consuming moldy relish is not safe. Mold can produce harmful toxins that can cause health issues. It’s best to discard any food that has mold on it.
What Is It?
Relish is a condiment made from diced, pickled vegetables. Mold is a type of fungus that can grow on food that has been stored improperly or for too long.
How to Tell
Mold on relish can appear as fuzzy spots of various colors, including green, white, black, or blue. The relish may also have an off smell or taste.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating moldy relish can pose several health risks.
- Mold can produce mycotoxins, which are harmful substances that can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and in severe cases, even organ damage.
- Some molds can cause foodborne illnesses.
Safe Method?
The safest method is to discard any relish that shows signs of mold. It’s not safe to simply remove the moldy part and eat the rest, as the mold’s roots can penetrate deep into the food.
Storage Tips
Store relish in the refrigerator to slow down mold growth.’, ‘Use a clean spoon each time you take some relish out of the jar to prevent introducing bacteria that can cause mold.