How to handle moldy food

Health · First reported 30 Oct, 18:05 · Updated 18:28

Image: Wikimedia Commons · NASA Johnson Space Center · Public domain

Food safety advice depends on the food’s texture and condition: some firm produce may be trimmed, while soft or water-rich foods, bread, and moldy jam should be discarded. The articles also note that visible mold may not reveal whether toxins are present.

The advice depends on the food: Brian Labus says mold can be cut away from firm fruit, while mushy produce, moldy bread, and moldy jam or jelly should be discarded.
For berries, the articles advise discarding pieces with visible mold or soft spots; intact berries without visible mold can be washed and eaten. The USDA guidance described also advises discarding fruit touching moldy pieces.
A German survey found that nearly one in three respondents cut mold off food, and fewer than half knew that cooking or baking does not destroy mycotoxins. The survey measured reported habits and knowledge, not toxin levels or illness.

Summary written by Lux AI from 2 articles

Key facts

Survey: Nearly one in three respondents said they cut mold off food before eating the rest.
Survey knowledge: Fewer than half knew cooking or baking does not destroy mycotoxins.
Firm fruit: Labus says mold on firm fruit such as an apple may be cut away.
Bread: Labus recommends discarding bread if mold appears on a slice.
Berries: Discard berries with visible mold or soft spots; intact berries without signs of mold can be washed and eaten.