Zaira Wasim recently claimed that she found mould in a pie that she bought from a local bakery in Kashmir's Srinagar. "Mould in the pie. People, check twice before you consume stuff from local bakeries," the former actor wrote on Instagram Stories along with pictures. Considering that many of us assume bakery items to be fresh, here are some expert tips to help you stay cautious. What are the health implications of consuming mouldy and decaying products? Mould in food is a sign of spoilage and can pose significant health risks, including food poisoning, allergic reactions, and respiratory issues. "Certain moulds produce mycotoxins, toxic substances that can lead to serious health complications if ingested," said Dr Haricharan G, senior consultant physician, HoD, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad. Unlike one-celled bacteria, moulds are made of many cells and can sometimes be seen with the naked eye, according to USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service. "Under a microscope, they look like skinny mushrooms", it read. It states that in many moulds, the body consists of: *root threads that invade the food it lives on, *a stalk rising above the food, and *spores that form at the ends of the stalks. Accidental ingestion of mold-infested food can cause gastrointestinal distress and one can have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, stressed Dr Urvi Maheshwari, internal medicine expert, Zynova Shalby Hospital. When buying from local bakeries, it's essential to be vigilant about food safety. "Always inspect baked goods for visible signs of spoilage, such as unusual discoloration, spots, or off odours. Mould often appears as fuzzy or discoloured patches, and even small amounts can indicate the presence of harmful microorganisms," mentioned Dr Haricharan. Additionally, inquire about the bakery's storage and handling practices. "Proper storage, such as refrigeration and humidity control, is crucial in preventing mould growth," said Dr Haricharan. Choosing freshly baked items can reduce the risk of encountering spoiled products. According to D Haricharan, it’s also important to consider the bakery’s reputation for cleanliness and food safety. "Regular patronage of reputable establishments with high standards of hygiene can help ensure that the food you consume is safe and of good quality," said Dr Haricharan. Protecting your health requires a combination of careful observation and informed choices.
