In this blog post, we will review the impact of moulds on food safety.We will identify the common moulds that can be found in foods , which foods are affected by moulds and what you can do to prevent moulds from growing on your food.
Effects of moulds on foods
Moulds are also micro-organisms ,a fungus responsible for food safety concerns .It alters the texture, appearance and flavour of a food , leading to its spoilage . A food may appear slimy and have a darker colour when it is infested by moulds.
Uses of moulds in the food indutsry
Certain moulds are however, especially important in food production i.e. beers and wines. For example, certain strains particularly those of of the penicillium are important in cheese production.The harmful ones however mainly trigger food intoxication as opposed to food infections in that they produce toxins that cause food poisoning instead of they themselves leading to poisoining when consumed.
Mycotoxins -are moulds that produce toxins.
Foods that moulds can grow on
Moulds can grow on foods such as ;
- Bread
- Vegetables
- Meat
- Dairy products
- Nuts
- Fruits
Conditions that favour mould development
Under the right conditions suitable for their development-warm and moist places, moulds can begin to form.
Common moulds found in foods
- Mucor,
- Penicillium-found in fruits e.g. apples, grapes, etc and their juices
- Aspergillus-nuts, grains , spices,
- Fusarium -found in maize, wheat , oats
Effects of consuming foods that contain moulds
Consuming mycotoxins can lead to food poisoining, which usually presents with gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, fatigue etc .They can also lead to kidney and liver damage and in the long- term lead to the weakening of the immune system. The exposure to mycotoxins can occur either through ingestion or skin contact or inhalation.
Perhaps the most severe mycotoxins are aflatoxins, particularly those of aspergillus species that are found in foods such as grains i.e. rice and nuts. These mycotoxins cause severe effects when consumed. They can trigger liver damage or lead to fatality.
In general, if a food contains moulds, it is probably best to discard it. If not the entire food is affected, you could cut the affected portions and discard the rest.
How to prevent foods from mould development
To prevent food from moulds, it is best to ensure proper handling, hygiene and sanitation and storage practices . Wash your hands well before handling food and cook food thoroughly at the correct temperatures. Avoid storing food in warm moisty conditions, instead opt to store them in dry- properly ventilated conditions.
In conclusion, moulds are generally found in our surroundings . They are significant in food production wherein they are utilized in the making of beers, wines, cheese etc. Though there are certain strains that cause food poisoning incidences. Learning how to prevent them is integral in managing associated food safety concerns , and so is incorporating good hygiene, and proper food storage and handling practices.