When the refrigerator reveals mold on a food surface, the instinctive move is to discard it. Yet not every moldy item must be thrown away, especially the drier foods that can still be safe to eat. A recent publication by the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) highlighted three categories of foods that may be consumed even with mold presence.
What foods can be saved?
There are three kinds of foods that can still be safe to eat, even if they show a touch of mold.
Firm fruits and vegetables can sometimes be saved by removing the moldy portion and a margin around it, ensuring no contaminated area remains. Examples include bell peppers, carrots, and cabbage.
Fruits with dense textures may still be safe if the mold is confined to a surface and the affected area is trimmed away. The remaining parts should be inspected for color, odor, and texture before consumption.
Hard cheeses such as Emmental, Manchego, and Gouda are typically safe to eat after removing the mold. These cheeses have relatively low moisture content, which limits mold growth. To recover the edible portion, simply cut away the mold with a clean knife, ensuring at least a centimeter around the mold is discarded.
In some cured sausages, mold can appear if these products are stored for longer periods. If the mold is limited to the surface and the surrounding area is cleaned, the sausage can be consumed after removing the mold-affected portion. This approach aligns with guidance on safe handling of cured meats when rinds or casings show surface mold.
Is it possible to prevent mold appearance?
There are several practical steps to reduce mold growth on these and other foods. The foremost priority is to ensure that purchased foods arrive in good condition and show no signs of mold, as damaged items are more prone to rapid mold spread in the refrigerator. Buying fresh items in quantities that can be eaten before spoilage is wise, helping to minimize waste. Regular refrigerator cleaning should not be neglected, and proper storage methods for each product type play a critical role in extending freshness and safety.
Maintaining clean storage shelves, keeping humidity in check, and promptly sealing leftovers are all part of a mold-prevention plan. Consumers are encouraged to inspect foods upon purchase and again before consumption, discarding anything that appears questionable. With careful handling, several foods may be enjoyed beyond the first signs of surface mold, reducing waste and promoting mindful eating habits.