Mold contamination is a common issue for anyone who stores cigars. It typically appears as fuzzy, discolored spots on the wrapper, often indicating poor storage conditions. The presence of mold raises questions about the cigar’s safety and whether the tobacco has been compromised. Understanding this contamination risk is necessary for protecting the rest of a collection and making an informed decision about the cigar’s fate.
Identifying Mold Versus Plume
The first step in addressing any white or colored substance on a cigar’s wrapper is determining if it is mold or a harmless crystalline formation called plume. Plume, also referred to as bloom, is a fine, powdery, white coating resulting from natural tobacco oils crystallizing as the cigar ages in optimal conditions. It is considered a sign of proper aging and can be easily brushed away without leaving any residue or staining the wrapper.
Mold, in contrast, presents a different appearance and texture, often indicating excess moisture in the storage environment. Mold growth is characterized by a fuzzy, three-dimensional texture, which may be colored green, blue, or patchy white. If present, attempting to wipe it away usually proves difficult and leaves a noticeable stain on the tobacco leaf. Any substance that looks moist, sticky, or furry, and does not wipe off cleanly, should be treated as dangerous mold.
Health Implications of Smoking Moldy Tobacco
Smoking a cigar with confirmed mold growth is highly discouraged due to potential biological risks to the respiratory system. Mold is a fungus that produces microscopic spores and mycotoxins, which become airborne when the cigar is smoked. Inhaling these substances can lead to allergic reactions, respiratory irritation, or more serious fungal infections. While the extreme heat of combustion may kill the mold at the burning tip, spores deeper within the unburnt tobacco can still be drawn into the mouth and lungs.
Individuals with compromised immune systems or pre-existing respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to inhaling mold spores. Furthermore, mold growth significantly degrades the quality of the tobacco, altering the flavor and aroma with a musty, unpleasant taste. Even if health risks are ignored, the compromised experience makes smoking a moldy cigar undesirable.
What To Do If Your Cigar Has Mold
Once mold is positively identified on a cigar, immediate action is necessary to prevent contamination from spreading throughout the collection. The first step is to isolate affected cigars by removing them from the humidor and placing them in a separate, sealed container. Cigars with heavy mold growth, particularly those where the mold has penetrated the foot or filler, should be discarded entirely. Mold rooted deep into the tobacco cannot be safely removed and poses a continued risk to the rest of the collection.
Aficionados may attempt to salvage a cigar if the mold is extremely minor and only appears on the surface of the wrapper leaf. This risky procedure involves carefully wiping the spot with a clean, dry cloth, but it is generally not recommended for anything more than a tiny, isolated patch. After attempting salvage, the cigar must be closely monitored for several days for recurrence. Any cigar showing mold on the foot must be thrown away, as the mold has likely infiltrated the filler tobacco.
Preventing Mold Growth in Your Humidor
Preventing mold involves maintaining a precisely controlled environment that discourages fungal growth, which thrives in high humidity and warm temperatures. The ideal relative humidity (RH) for cigar storage is consistently between 65% and 72%. Humidity levels exceeding 75% create the perfect conditions for mold spores to germinate and spread. Temperature control is equally important, with the recommended range being 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius).
Key Prevention Strategies
Proper air circulation within the humidor is crucial, as stagnant air allows moisture to build up in pockets. Regular inspection of the cigars and the humidor interior allows for early detection of any issues.
- Avoid overfilling the humidor, which restricts airflow and can lead to uneven humidity distribution.
- Calibrate the hygrometer quarterly to ensure accurate readings.
- Use only distilled water or a propylene glycol solution in the humidification device.