“What to Do If You Accidentally Ate Moldy Food: Expert Tips and Advice” – Baylor College of Medicine Blog Network

We’ve all had that moment – you’re ready to whip up a delicious meal, but then you spot mold on an ingredient. What should you do? Here’s some straightforward advice based on insights from Dr. Mike Ren, a primary care physician at Baylor Medicine.

Dr. Ren explains that whether you can salvage the food depends on what it is. For dry foods like bread or hard cheese, you might be able to slice off the moldy part and eat the rest. But make sure to cut away a generous chunk around the mold. If the mold spreads, it’s safer to toss it all.

When it comes to moist foods, like fruits or softer cheeses, it’s a different story. If you find mold on a few strawberries, it’s best to throw out the entire container. Moist environments can harbor more bacteria alongside the mold, increasing your risk of getting sick.

Here are some tips to consider:
– Check sell-by and eat-by dates. While they guide you, trust your senses too. Look for odd smells or changes in texture and color. For example, vegetables might not smell bad, but their limpness or discoloration can signal they’ve gone bad.
– Leftovers typically last 2 to 4 days in the fridge. Always reheat them thoroughly, especially meats, and avoid seasoning before reheating as it can mask any bad odors.
– Keep in mind that everyone’s gut reacts differently. If you have a healthy digestive system, you might handle slightly questionable food better than someone with gut issues.

Dr. Ren also highlights some common food concerns:
– Guacamole can brown due to oxidation, but it’s safe to eat, even if it looks unappealing.
– Drinking milk directly from the container can introduce bacteria, but a little sour milk usually won’t harm you. Just don’t keep it more than a week past the sell-by date.
– In the U.S., refrigerated eggs can last about 5 to 6 weeks, even after the labeled date.

If you eat something questionable and get a mild upset stomach, over-the-counter remedies like Pepto Bismol might help. However, if you experience prolonged symptoms like diarrhea or can’t keep food down for more than three days, it’s time to see a doctor.

Understanding food safety is more important than ever, especially with recent studies showing an increase in foodborne illnesses. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 48 million people get sick from food each year in the U.S. Being informed about what to do with moldy food can help you avoid becoming part of that statistic.

Remember, when in doubt, it’s always safer to throw it out. Keep your gut—and your meals—healthy!

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