‘Forbidden to be eaten’: Viral post warns burnt chips could be a sign of throat mould; experts clarify the truth

The alarming message has sparked confusion among consumers, many of whom are unsure whether to believe the warning or dismiss it as yet another viral myth. One person commented, “That tastes the best in the entire packet,” while another wrote, “Anti-burnt-chip propaganda before GTA 6.” Another user joked, “happened to a buddy of mine, now his throat is sour cream and onion flavored.”

To verify this bold claim and understand what you should actually look out for when snacking, we consulted with healthcare professionals. 

Is there any scientific basis to the claim?

Dr Pranav Honnavara Srinivasan, consultant surgical gastroenterologist at Fortis Hospitals, tells indianexpress.com, “No, there is currently no scientific evidence supporting the claim that chips with a burnt appearance are contaminated with a specific mould that targets the throat. A darker appearance in chips is most often due to overcooking or the caramelisation of sugars during frying, especially in chips made from potatoes with high sugar content.”

The post warns that these darkened chips aren’t safe to eat and should be thrown away immediately (Source: Instagram/@gktrickindia)

Dr Jagadish Hiremath, a public health intellectual, concurs, “There is currently no scientific evidence to support the idea that chips with a burnt look are contaminated with mould that specifically targets the throat.” He adds that mould, which can affect respiratory or throat health, typically grows in moist, poorly ventilated environments. The manufacturing process for chips involves high temperatures that significantly reduce the possibility of microbial growth, including mould. 

“Unless a packet has been compromised after production, the chances of chips carrying throat-targeting mould are extremely low,” he states. 

Signs that packaged snacks like chips may be unsafe to eat due to mould or other contamination

According to Dr. Srinivasan, signs of contamination in packaged snacks include a musty or unusual odor when the packet is opened, visible discoloration resembling green, blue, black, or white mold growth, and an off or stale taste. Swollen packaging, punctures, or broken seals can also indicate exposure to moisture or bacteria, increasing the risk of spoilage.

“If the chips smell odd, feel unusually soft or damp, or show any powdery residue, they should be discarded. Consumers should also check the expiration date and avoid consuming snacks stored in hot, humid conditions,” he suggests. 

If a chip does appear unusually dark or burnt, what should consumers do?

If a chip looks darker than usual, Dr Hiremath stresses, it is most likely overcooked and not harmful in itself. However, if it also smells odd or tastes unusually bitter or chemical-like, “it is best to stop eating it.” Such changes could indicate oil degradation or rare instances of contamination.

Dr Srinivasan assures, “While burnt chips may contain higher levels of acrylamide — a chemical formed when starchy foods are cooked at high temperatures — occasional consumption of such chips is unlikely to pose significant health risks.”

Although eating one or two overcooked chips is unlikely to cause health issues, it is always safer to trust your senses. “If there is any doubt, it is better to discard the product. Consumers should also take note of expiration dates, storage conditions, and the overall quality of the packaging before consumption,” concludes Dr Hiremath. 

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.