Expert: Carol Schlitt - 11/10/2006

Question
I have 100% whey protein which is only a month since I opened it - EXP DATE 03/08 and it has mold in it. Is this harmful?

Answer
Hi Rick,

Could be -- it depends on the type of mold and your reaction to mold.

Some people have allergic reactions to mold (mostly respiratory.) Other molds can produce toxins that can be harmful if consumed.  While this is fairly rare and is usually associated with grains and legumes (corn, peanuts, etc) it can occur in other foods.  Our recommendation is to not eat soft foods (cream cheese, jelly, sour cream, etc) containing molds that are not part of the manufacturing process (blue cheese -- for example). Hard foods with mold (natural cheeses, sausage, etc) may be cut off and continued to be used.

I would not consume this product.

For research-based information on molds on foods, please check out this website:  http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/Molds_On_Food/index.asp

If I can be of further assistance, please let me know.

Carol