Discovering a fresh loaf of bread marred by a patch of mold can be a disappointing moment, especially when you’re craving a perfect sandwich. However, experts caution against salvaging moldy bread by simply cutting around the affected area.
“Mold in bread is tricky,” warns Lorene Sauro, a certified nutritionist and food safety expert. “Even if you only see a small spot, many more mold spores are likely present but invisible to the naked eye.” These mold spores can potentially produce mycotoxins, which are harmful compounds that persist even after cooking. “Cooking may kill the mold, but the toxins remain,” Sauro explains. For individuals sensitive to mycotoxins, consuming moldy bread could lead to adverse reactions.
Shelly Balls, a registered dietitian nutritionist and ServSafe Manager Certified, echoes this sentiment: “The root of the mold penetrates deeply into bread, making it unsafe to consume even if you cut away visible mold.” She emphasizes that molds can generate toxins that cause food poisoning and can also pose health risks through inhalation.
Unlike certain cheeses where mold can be safely trimmed away, Sauro emphasizes that bread should be discarded immediately upon any sign of mold. “There are numerous types of molds that can grow on bread, each with potential health hazards,” Balls adds, noting the impossibility of identifying the specific mold type and its associated risks.
In conclusion, both experts advise against taking chances with moldy bread. “If you see any signs of mold, throw out the bread,” Sauro emphasizes. And if concerns about health aren’t persuasive enough, Sauro adds a final reason: “Moldy bread that’s gone bad may also taste less enjoyable.” So, opt for fresh alternatives or treat yourself to takeout if you encounter mold – your health and taste buds will thank you.