Is moldy sour cream safe to eat?
Quick Answer
No
Consuming moldy sour cream can lead to food poisoning. The mold could produce mycotoxins, harmful substances that can make you sick.
What Is It?
Moldy sour cream is sour cream that has been contaminated with mold, a type of fungus. This usually occurs when the sour cream has been stored improperly or kept for too long.
How to Tell
Moldy sour cream may have a fuzzy or slimy texture, discoloration, or a strong, off smell. It may also have visible mold spots, which can be in various colors like green, blue, white, or black.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating moldy sour cream poses several health risks, including:
- Food poisoning
- Allergic reactions
- Respiratory problems
Safe Method?
The safest method is to discard the entire container of moldy sour cream. Even if you remove the moldy parts, the invisible mycotoxins could still be present in the sour cream.
Safe Alternatives
If you find your sour cream is moldy, consider using alternatives like Greek yogurt, buttermilk, or cream cheese for your recipes.
Storage Tips
Store sour cream in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.’, ‘Keep the container sealed when not in use to prevent exposure to mold spores in the air.’, ‘Use the sour cream before its expiration date.