AboutCarol Schlitt Expertise I can answer questions on home food safety, sanitation, home food preservation and commercial food safety (HACCP).
Experience I am an Extension educator, nutrition, wellness and food safety. I am a certified HACCP manager and a food safety instructor for the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Organizations International Association for Food Protection, American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (Certified CFCS), National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, Society for Nutrition Education.
Education/Credentials BS - University of Illinois
MS - Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville
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.
