Discovering mold on cheese is a common experience that often leads to concern about accidental ingestion. This article clarifies what happens when unwanted mold is consumed and provides actionable steps.
Understanding Mold on Cheese
Not all mold on cheese is bad; some types are intentionally introduced during cheesemaking to develop distinct flavors and textures. For instance, blue veins in cheeses like Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and Stilton are due to specific molds such as Penicillium roqueforti. Similarly, soft, white rinds on Brie and Camembert are formed by molds like Penicillium candidum and Penicillium camemberti, which are safe to consume and contribute to the cheese’s unique qualities.
In contrast, unwanted molds appear as fuzzy growths varying in color, including white, green, black, or gray. These molds often indicate spoilage due to improper storage, age, or cross-contamination. Unlike beneficial molds, these undesirable varieties can signal the presence of other harmful bacteria or mycotoxins. Soft cheeses, shredded, crumbled, or sliced varieties are particularly susceptible to deep mold penetration, making it unsafe to simply cut off the visible mold.
What Happens When You Eat Unwanted Mold
Accidentally eating unwanted mold on cheese can lead to a range of outcomes, though severe reactions are uncommon for healthy individuals. Consuming a small amount of moldy cheese may not cause noticeable symptoms. The body’s stomach acid is often effective in neutralizing small quantities of mold spores, preventing harm.
However, some molds can produce toxic compounds called mycotoxins, which are a concern. Their presence in cheese can occur through direct contamination during growth or indirectly from contaminated animal feed. Mycotoxins like aflatoxins are hazardous and have been linked to liver damage and other health issues in severe cases, though their levels in cheese are usually low.
Symptoms, if they occur, commonly involve mild gastrointestinal upset. These include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach cramps, as the body attempts to expel the foreign substance. Some individuals may also experience allergic reactions, manifesting as itchiness, rashes, nasal congestion, or shortness of breath. Allergic responses can be more pronounced in individuals with existing mold allergies or compromised immune systems.
Steps to Take After Ingestion
If you accidentally consume unwanted moldy cheese, remain calm and monitor for any developing symptoms. For most healthy individuals, no specific intervention beyond observation is necessary. Staying well-hydrated can help flush out any potential toxins or allergens. Avoid inducing vomiting, as this can cause further complications.
Pay close attention to your body’s response over the next few hours to a day. While many people experience no ill effects, be aware of symptoms such as persistent nausea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or diarrhea. If these symptoms are prolonged or intensify, or if you develop difficulty breathing or signs of a severe allergic reaction like hives or swelling, seek immediate medical attention. Individuals who are immunocompromised, elderly, pregnant, or very young should also consult a healthcare provider promptly after ingesting unwanted mold, as they may be at higher risk for adverse reactions.