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1. Some Moldy Foods Are Easily Digestible by Our Bodies
Molds used in various types of cheese are generally safe to consume. In fact, cheeses like gorgonzola, roquefort, and blue are made by exposing them to specific molds (fermentation), while camembert and brie use white mold. Unfortunately, they are still not suitable for people with allergies.
2. Some Molds Can Damage Your Liver
Molds are actually tiny fungi that spread onto food through wind, water, or insects.
Many harmful chemicals can be found in molds, leading to serious health issues like liver damage, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. However, this depends on factors such as your immune system and age. One of the most common and toxic substances found is aflatoxin, which can even cause cancer, particularly liver cancer.
Fortunately, not all moldy foods produce this harmful toxin. However, aflatoxin is found in moldy peanuts and corn, so it’s important to carefully inspect leftover food before consuming it.
3. Bacteria in Mold Can Cause Food Poisoning Symptoms
In reality, mold toxin-related illnesses are quite significant. Science has proven that consuming moldy food can lead to serious health issues. These illnesses can manifest as acute poisoning, but more often as chronic poisoning due to the gradual accumulation of small amounts of mold toxins in the body.
It is estimated that nearly 40% of known mold species can produce toxins that are harmful to human health. The toxicity of these mold toxins varies, and the illness they cause in the body also differs accordingly.
In such cases, symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may occur. The severity of these symptoms depends on the type of bacteria and the amount of contaminated food consumed. It is essential to be cautious during food preparation to maintain good health.
4. You May Be Allergic to Mold
Food provides essential nutrients for the body, but if food is not properly stored or has been contaminated by mold, especially expired food, it can become a source of illness. There are thousands of mold species that thrive in high temperatures and humidity. Improper storage of food, particularly dry food or grains with high oil content, can lead to an increase in mold growth.
Some people are allergic to mold found on food. If your body is sensitive, it's best to avoid these foods, or if you accidentally consume them, seek medical attention immediately. Common allergy symptoms include:
- Itchy eyes, watery eyes
- Rashes
- Difficulty breathing
- Runny nose, nasal congestion
