Everyday Foods That Can Contain Hidden Mold And Affect Your Health

Mold is a fungus most of us likely don't want to see on our food. However, there are some foods in your pantry or fridge that already contain hidden mold. According to Healthline, mold can change the appearance of food, whether it be texture, color, or odor. Mold creates spores that change how the fungus looks to the naked eye, oftentimes appearing fluffy and green. Regardless of how mold changes a food, some mold causes food to decay, and consuming it can be dangerous to your health.

Aside from food, mold can be found anywhere. Some molds present a risk to your health, as they release mold toxins known as mycotoxins, MindBodyGreen reports. These mycotoxins are poisonous substances that can cause inflammation in the body. Unfortunately, these types of molds can't be seen by the naked eye. Instead, they present symptoms that resemble other health conditions, such as constant fatigue. Some foods actually contain mycotoxins and other molds, all of which can affect your health in a big way.

From coffee to dried fruit, you'd be surprised at the foods that contain hidden mold. Unfortunately, even your favorite cup of joe may contain mycotoxins. Coffee beans can retain mycotoxin because the mold isn't killed while the beans are roasting. To prevent this from affecting your health, look for a coffee brand that tests for mycotoxins (via MindBodyGreen). Mycotoxins are also present in some rice, so it's recommended to search for the grain in organic form to help avoid exposure. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, dried fruit and mushrooms are food fungi, so they also contain hidden mold.

There are many steps you can take to minimize your risk of mycotoxins, and proper storage is key to preventing mold in food. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises checking whole grains, such as nuts, for any damage or mold. Additionally, don't keep food for too long. Mold can present a variety of symptoms in the body, like nausea and vomiting, or turn into other health conditions, like esophageal cancer. Consuming a diverse diet not only improves your health but reduces the risk of mycotoxin exposure.