How Fast Does Mold Grow on Food?
Mold is a living organism that requires certain conditions to grow on foods. The better those conditions, the faster the mold spores will germinate and grow. Does this Spark an idea?
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Conditions
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Molds are actually fungi that grow from spores in the air. Its ideal growth environment requires organic nutrients, moisture and warmth. Mold grows fastest under these conditions which allow it to produce chemicals that encourage and feed further mold growth.
Appearance
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Mold may be present in food without being readily visible. Once the mold has taken root, it will begin to colonize, producing spores which may appear on the surface of foods within one to two days depending on the food and environmental conditions.
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Prevention/Solution
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service has guidelines on how to protect yourself from mold. Its recommendations include consuming leftovers within three to four days, covering perishable foods with plastic wrap to protect them from airborne mold spores, and refrigerating perishable foods within two hours of purchase.
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References
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