Facts on Bad Bread

Bad, or moldy, bread can cause many problems. Once bread expires it can become toxic and create a variety of illnesses. When bread has been stored in environments with high temperatures and moisture, a thorough inspection is necessary. Bread should be discarded after it expires or more importantly when mold begins to grow within the bread. Mold can even grow below the top surface of the slices of bread and not be visible.

Identifying Bad Bread

• Your bread may be bad if you see green, gray or blue fuzzy spots on the surface. However, even if you don't see moldy spots on the bread, there may still be mold growing inside of the slices. White spots may also be on the bread but can be difficult to see. To check for mold that isn't visible on the bread's surface, cut the bread to check its interior. Bread that tastes unusual should be discarded as well.

Toxins in Moldy Bread

• Mold begins to grow on the bread when there is a small amount of moisture surrounding the loaf. The mold prefers heat but can even grow on the bread when it is stored in a refrigerator. As the mold continues to grow, it produces mycotoxins, poisonous toxins. Although mycotoxins are rarely produced, they are a health hazard and cause allergic reactions and respiratory illnesses.

Bacteria in Moldy Bread

• Bacteria are a major concern for those who eat moldy bread. Not only can the molds that produce these bacteria cause illnesses, but sometimes the genes in the bacteria experience mutations during reproduction. When theses gene mutations take place, the bacteria may produce more severe and less treatable illnesses. Some of the bacteria become more resistant to antibiotics or other medications.

Hallucinogenic and Neurological Effects of Bad Bread

• Mold grown on rye bread can have surprisingly ill effects on consumers. Beyond bacterial infections, hallucinogenic and neurological reactions can occur from consumption of certain types of mold. This theory was first investigated between the 16th and 17th centuries, when those ill from moldy rye bread were often thought to be under a spell or curse. Not only can moldy rye bread cause hallucinations, but also fevers, convulsions and other extreme symptoms. The cause of this is the ergot that grows on rye bread.