Fungus-Like Crystallization in the Freezer

Inspect your freezer for signs of mold growth.

Homeowners who find fungi growing in their refrigerator or freezer may have mold growth. Mold can be a variety of colors and textures. Once this fungi reaches moisture, it can begin to grow. While mold grows more slowly in colder temperatures, freezers and refrigerators with leaky seals may have mold growth inside.

Identification

Many species of fungi exist and are everywhere in the environment. These fungi must have moisture and humidity to grow and thrive. Molds comprise fungal spores, which give mold its color. Molds can be white, gray, green, pink, brown or black and can be crystallized, slimy or fuzzy in texture. While most molds are harmless, some can cause adverse health effects if inhaled or consumed.

Causes

Molds must have moisture and humid conditions to multiply and grow. Typically, mold flourishes in warm, humid spaces but it can grow in colder temperatures in the right conditions. Freezers or refrigerators that have ill-fitting seals or gaskets may have mold growth because humid air is leaking inside, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Removal

Scrub the fungus with liquid dish detergent and water to remove it from inside your freezer. Wipe with a damp cloth to rinse and dry with a towel. Once you have removed mold fungi, you must determine the cause of mold growth to prevent it from returning. Examine all seals and gaskets on your freezer or refrigerator to determine if they are sealing properly keeping cold air inside and humid air out. Clean any mold growth around freezer seals and gaskets. Replace any seals or gaskets that are not fitting properly. Empty any drip pans underneath the freezer and scrub to remove any visible mold growth.

Considerations

While most molds are not harmful, some can cause allergic reactions or adverse health effects if inhaled or ingested. Even dead mold spores can cause serious reactions in sensitive people. Those who have a known allergy to molds should not attempt to remove it and should not remain inside the home while it is being removed. Never eat any food that has visible mold growth. Do not cut away mold and consume the remainder of food as molds often have threads of fungi growing throughout the food.

References

• CPSC: Biological Pollutants In Your Home
• USDA: Molds On Food: Are They Dangerous?