FSM 299: Are Moldy Foods Safe to Eat?

This is Food Safety in a Minute from Washington State University Extension. Are foods with mold safe to eat? The answer, “it depends”. Molds are microscopic fungi, threadlike filaments that extend past the surface of the food. Some molds cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems. A few of them produce mycotoxins, that may make you sick. If you find mold on food in your kitchen, the USDA recommends discarding these foods: Luncheon meats including hot dogs, leftover meat and poultry, cooked casseroles, cooked grains and pasta, soft cheeses, yogurt, sour cream, jams and jellies, soft fruits and vegetables, baked goods, peanut butter, legumes, and nuts. For mold found on hard cheese, cheeses made with mold, and firm fruits and vegetables such as carrots, cut off at least one inch around mold before eating. For Food Safety in a Minute, I’m Susie Craig. Resources: United States Department of Agriculture – Food Safety and Inspection Service. Molds on Food Are They Dangerous? https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/molds-food-are-they-dangerous. Accessed online 8/5/24. Click here to take a quick survey: https://bit.ly/2E3hR5Q