Optiing for freshly baked goods is almost as important as choosing fresh produce and grains and actor Zaira Wasim’s recent post is all the proof you need. Most baked goods or artisanal bread don’t come with packaging details. However, mold in baked items is a common issue that can occur when the conditions are right for mold spores to grow.
Mold thrives in warm, moist environments, making baked goods, especially those that are not properly stored, susceptible to mold growth. Even if you’re buying your bakes from a neighbourhood bakery, you should always check up on when the food was baked.
Recently, Dangal actor Zaira Wasim took to social media to post an Instagram story, sharing a concerning experience with her followers. The video story Wasim posted showed a pie she had ordered from a local bakery, which appeared to feature small, but noticeable, mold spore. Wasim shared a warning with her followers about how crucial it is to be vigilant when buying food from local establishments.
“People, check twice before consuming stuff from local bakeries,” she wrote. “Mold in the pie,” she added and tagged Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, as the location. This prompted her followers to share similar experiences they have had in the past.
One of the primary factors contributing to mold in baked goods is improper storage. Baked items left at room temperature for extended periods or stored in humid conditions can quickly develop mold. This is because mold spores are naturally present in the environment and can settle on the surface of the food. Once they find a suitable environment, such as a moist cake or bread, they begin to grow.
To prevent mold growth, it is essential to store baked goods properly. Items like bread and cakes should be cooled completely before being sealed in airtight containers or wrapped in plastic wrap. Refrigeration can also help extend the shelf life, especially in warm climates. However, some items, like bread, can become stale faster in the fridge, so freezing might be a better option. So if you’re buying your bread from local bakeries, opt for packets which have packaging details or at least have been baked within the last 24 hours.