Can rotten fruits still be eaten

Rotten fruits are usually not recommended for consumption as they may contain harmful substances or pathogenic microorganisms. Fruit decay is mainly caused by microbial contamination, mechanical damage, improper storage, and other factors. When there is slight mold growth or local decay, some fruits can be consumed for a short period of time after removing the spoiled parts. However, when the mold growth area is large or there is an odor, they should be discarded. During the process of fruit decay, microorganisms will decompose the flesh and produce toxins. Even if the moldy part is removed, the invisible hyphae may have spread throughout the entire fruit. Common molds such as penicillin and ochratoxin are heat-resistant and may damage the liver. If hard fruits such as apples and pears are only locally damaged, the surrounding flesh should be cut off more than 1 centimeter in a timely manner and consumed in the short term. However, soft fruits such as bananas and strawberries are prone to overall contamination when they become moldy. When some fruits have blackened skin due to low-temperature frostbite or mild fermentation but have not moldy, there is less nutrient loss and they can be consumed as soon as possible. Penicillin produced after citrus fruit mold growth may penetrate deep into the flesh, and there is still a risk even if the surface mold is removed. Patients with diabetes, people with low immunity and pregnant women should avoid eating any rotten fruit to prevent mycotoxins from causing diarrhea or more serious health problems.

Daily storage of fruits should avoid squeezing and collision, and promptly remove rotten individuals to prevent cross contamination. Choose undamaged fresh fruits when purchasing. Tropical fruits such as mangoes and bananas should not be refrigerated, while apples and grapes can be refrigerated to extend their shelf life. Before consumption, carefully check the surface and odor of the fruit. Moldy fruits must be discarded and disposed of. For slightly damaged fruits, it is recommended to cook them at high temperatures and consume them as soon as possible. At the same time, pay attention to dietary diversity to avoid excessive intake of a single fruit.