Expert: Bill Finck Jr. - 12/31/2009

Question
I have reduced my cigar smoking over the years and I have noticed a white powder like residue on some of My cigars. I have seen this in times past on cigars in some retail humidors. Is this mold, and if so are the cigars ruined? Also what caused this and what can I do to prevent/fix the problem.

Sincerely,

Tim Sherlock

Answer


Tim,

Mold is not really powdery, it grows and looks more like a fuzz. Occasionally cigars grow mold just on the outside wrapper from being over-humidified. This surface mold can be wiped off and does not cause any real damage. However, if a cigar grows mold on the inside, you might as well throw it away. You can generally see mold on the inside of the cigar at the foot. If you are not sure, wipe it off, cut the head and draw some air through it. If it tastes like mold...

That being said, white powdery residue is nearly always caused by a humidification system. When you see that in a retail store, it is because they are using a humidifier with inadequate or no water filtration system. When the humidifier atomizes the water, it separates the impurities, and they settle and stick to the cigars. I suspect that the cigars you have with this white powdery residue actually came that way from the store where you bought them.

Hope this helps, if you have more questions please let me know.
Bill