The presence of mold on a cigar is a common concern that raises immediate questions about safety and quality. Cigar tobacco, as an organic material, is susceptible to fungal growth, especially when stored improperly. While some visible substances are harmless, true mold represents a biological hazard that can compromise the tobacco and impact human health. Understanding the difference between benign surface changes and dangerous mold is the first step in protecting your cigar collection and your well-being.
Distinguishing Mold from Plume
Many cigar enthusiasts mistake the harmless crystallization of tobacco oils for a dangerous fungal outbreak. This benign substance is commonly referred to as “plume” or “bloom,” and it is often considered a sign of proper aging. Plume appears as a fine, white, or light gray dust, resembling a light dusting of powder sugar that is evenly distributed across the wrapper. This crystalline structure is a byproduct of the natural oils within the tobacco leaf rising to the surface.
Mold, in contrast, is a living fungus with a distinctly different appearance and texture. True mold growth often presents as fuzzy, irregular patches with colors that can range from white to blue, green, or black. Unlike plume, mold tends to grow in localized spots and does not brush off easily; attempting to remove it often smears the growth or leaves a stain. Plume is typically odorless, but mold frequently emits a distinctly musty or sour smell, which is a clear indicator of fungal contamination.
Health Risks Associated with Mold Exposure
Smoking or handling a moldy cigar poses two primary health risks: respiratory irritation and exposure to mycotoxins. Mold reproduces by releasing microscopic spores into the air, and inhaling these spores can trigger allergic reactions, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma. Symptoms of spore inhalation may include coughing, wheezing, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.
The more significant danger comes from mycotoxins, which are toxic compounds produced by certain types of mold, such as Aspergillus species. These molds are commonly found on organic matter, including tobacco leaves, and their toxins can be absorbed by the body through the lungs and mucous membranes. Mycotoxins are systemic poisons, potentially leading to issues beyond simple irritation. While combustion heat may destroy some mold structures, it does not reliably neutralize all mycotoxins, which are chemically stable.
Causes and When a Moldy Cigar Must Be Discarded
Mold growth on cigars is caused by environmental conditions that favor fungal proliferation. Mold spores require moisture and organic material to thrive, and the primary trigger is excessive relative humidity, typically above 70%, combined with temperatures exceeding 75°F. Poor air circulation within a humidor also contributes, creating stagnant pockets of humid air where mold can easily take hold.
When mold is discovered on a cigar, the rule is to discard the affected cigar immediately. Mold has a root-like structure called mycelium, which penetrates deep into the tobacco filler, meaning that simply wiping the visible surface growth is ineffective. The mold you see is only a fraction of the total contamination, and the core of the cigar remains compromised. Because mold spores can spread easily, any truly moldy cigar must be removed from the humidor to prevent cross-contamination and safeguard the rest of your collection.