Types of mold that grow on bread include Aspergillus , Penicillium, Fusarium, Mucor, and Rhizopus. What’s more, there are many different species of each of these types of fungus ( 3 ). Mold is a fungus, and its spores appear as fuzzy growths on bread.
Is common bread mold dangerous?
For food safety experts, the answer is clear: Moldy bread is bad news . ... Some molds, like those used for Gorgonzola cheese, are safe to eat. But the mold dotting bread isn’t a benign source of extra fiber. Gravely says people who eat moldy food may suffer allergic reactions and respiratory problems.
What is the most common bread mold?
Rhizopus, cosmopolitan genus of some 10 species of filamentous fungi in the family Rhizopodaceae (formerly Mucoraceae), in the order Mucorales. Several species, including Rhizopus stolonifer (the common bread mold), have industrial importance, and a number are responsible for diseases in plants and animals.
What do mold spores look like on bread?
A common mold that grows on bread looks like white cottony fuzz at first. If you watch that mold for a few days, it will turn black. The tiny black dots are its spores, which can grow to produce more mold.
Does black mold grow on bread?
To date, 10 species of Rhizopus have been identified, including the most commonly seen, Rhizopus Stolonifer. The common name of this particular organism, black bread mold, comes from its tendency to grow on bread . The spores of this mold change shape depending on the food source.
Is bread mold penicillin?
As you’re trying to decide whether to throw the bread away, you remember that penicillin is made from mold [source: NLM].
Is blue mold on bread harmful?
You shouldn’t eat mold on bread or from a loaf with visible spots. The mold roots can quickly spread through bread, though you can’t see them. Eating moldy bread could make you sick, and inhaling spores may trigger breathing problems if you have a mold allergy. Try freezing bread to prevent mold.
Should I be worried if I ate moldy bread?
If you do accidentally ingest mold, don’t panic. “Be mindful of the fact that you ate it ,” says Dr. Craggs-Dino says. “And make sure you don’t have any symptoms for the rest of that day.
What happens if you eat a piece of moldy bread?
Eating moldy bread might very well make you sick — not just because it tastes bad — but because eating certain kinds of mold can be quite hazardous to your health. ... According to Women’s Health, the most common symptom of eating these variations of mold is nausea , though it can often be followed by vomiting.
What are symptoms of eating moldy bread?
Mold can produce toxic chemicals called mycotoxins. These can cause disease and even death, depending on the amount consumed, the length of exposure and the age and health of the individual ( 11 ). Acute toxicity includes gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea , as well as acute liver disease.
Is white stuff on bread mold?
While white mold is often a dull, dirty-white color, flour is a brighter white. Additionally, mold usually has a greenish-blue hue to it. If the spots appear greenish blue, then your bread is moldy . ... This way, if new white spots appear on your bread a few days later, you will know that they are mold and not flour.
Why does bread mold so fast in my house?
Of course if you make your own and skip the preservatives, the bread will mold even faster . ... Heat, humidity and light are all bad for bread but great for fungi or mold, so consider your fridge your best bet to keep your bread fresh and yummy. Tightly sealing the bread also helps slow the molding process.
Can you eat moldy bread if you toast it?
Also, FYI, toasting your bread will not kill the mold on it , so don’t even go there. Since bread is super porous, it’s definitely one to chuck at the first sign of fuzz, says the USDA.
What should you do if you accidentally eat mold?
Look out for food poisoning-like symptoms like nausea, vomiting , and diarrhea. Individuals who suffer from asthma or other respiratory issues should watch for signs of an allergic reaction. If you’ve consumed moldy food and are concerned about your health, contact your doctor immediately.
