What Happens If You Eat Moldy Beef Jerky? A Detailed Guide

Have you ever found a forgotten bag of beef jerky in the back of your pantry, only to discover it’s covered in mold?

It’s a common scenario, but what should you do if you accidentally eat moldy beef jerky? While some people may experience no symptoms at all, others may suffer from nausea, stomach pain, or even more serious health issues.

In this article, we’ll explore the potential risks of consuming moldy beef jerky and what you should do if you find yourself in this situation.

So, let’s dive in and learn more about the dangers of eating moldy beef jerky.

What Happens If You Eat Moldy Beef Jerky?

If you accidentally consume moldy beef jerky, the first thing you should do is consult a medical expert. While most healthy individuals may not experience any symptoms or only minor discomfort such as nausea or upset stomach, there is a risk of more serious health issues.

Mold can produce mycotoxins, which can cause gut, stomach, liver, or kidney problems if ingested in high enough quantities. Additionally, those who are allergic to certain strains of mold may experience itching, runny nose, coughing, and potential breathing problems in those with allergic asthma.

It’s important to note that moldy beef jerky should not be classified as food poisoning since that occurs when bacteria are ingested. However, consuming spoiled meat can lead to food poisoning and symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, headaches, and gastrointestinal problems.

If you do happen to eat moldy beef jerky and experience any symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. In some cases, the symptoms may onset within 4 to 6 hours of eating the jerky.

What Causes Mold To Grow On Beef Jerky?

Mold growth on beef jerky can occur due to various factors, but the primary culprits are moisture and oxygen. If the jerky is not dried to a sufficient level, excess moisture can remain in the meat, which creates an ideal environment for mold spores to grow. Mold requires oxygen to thrive, so if the packaging allows oxygen to penetrate the product, mold can develop.

Other potential causes of mold on beef jerky include using too much salt or sugar in the brine/marinade formula. When these ingredients concentrate during drying, they can crystallize on the surface of the meat, creating a white film that may be mistaken for mold. Tyrosine crystals, an amino acid that forms during drying, can also create a white film on the meat’s surface.

Sodium nitrite can precipitate on the jerky’s surface, causing a white film if hard water with excessive amounts of iron is used to formulate brine. Overdrying the jerky can also lead to crystalization of ingredients and a white film on the surface.

To prevent mold growth on beef jerky, ensure that it is dried to a sufficient level and properly packaged with minimal oxygen exposure. Storing jerky in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag with a desiccant or oxygen absorber can help maintain its freshness and prevent mold growth. It’s also important to handle and cook wild game with caution and follow recommended guidelines to avoid potential health risks.

The Health Risks Of Consuming Moldy Beef Jerky

Consuming moldy beef jerky can pose health risks, especially if the mold has produced mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are toxic substances that can cause a variety of health problems, including liver and kidney damage, gastrointestinal issues, and even cancer. If ingested in high enough quantities, mycotoxins can be fatal.

In addition to mycotoxins, some strains of mold can trigger allergic reactions in certain individuals. Symptoms of mold allergies include itching, runny nose, coughing, and potential breathing problems in those with allergic asthma.

While most healthy individuals may not experience any symptoms or only minor discomfort such as nausea or upset stomach after consuming moldy beef jerky, there is a risk of more serious health issues. It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms after eating moldy beef jerky.

It’s also important to note that moldy beef jerky should not be consumed since it can lead to food poisoning. Spoiled meat is one of the worst things to eat and can cause abdominal pain, fever, headaches, and gastrointestinal problems. It’s best to discard any moldy beef jerky and opt for a new bag instead to avoid any potential health risks.

Symptoms To Watch Out For

If you have consumed moldy beef jerky, there are certain symptoms to watch out for. While some individuals may not experience any symptoms, others may experience a range of health issues.

The most common symptoms of consuming moldy beef jerky include nausea, upset stomach, and mild discomfort. Other symptoms to watch out for include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, headache, and potentially serious gut, stomach, liver, or kidney problems if ingested in high enough quantities.

If you have an allergy to certain strains of mold, you may also experience itching, runny nose, coughing, and potential breathing problems in those with allergic asthma.

It’s important to note that symptoms can vary depending on the individual’s health status and the amount of mold ingested. If you experience any of the above symptoms after consuming moldy beef jerky, seek medical attention immediately.

How To Prevent Moldy Beef Jerky

Mold on beef jerky can be prevented by taking certain precautions during the curing and storage process. The main culprits for mold growth are moisture and oxygen, so it’s essential to minimize their exposure to the meat.

To prevent moldy beef jerky, make sure to dry the meat thoroughly during the dehydrating process. At least 90% of the moisture should be removed from the meat to prevent mold growth. If you’re unsure whether your jerky is dry enough, you can use a food dehydrator with a built-in moisture meter to ensure that it is adequately dried.

Once your jerky is dry, it’s important to store it properly. An airtight container such as a stand-up pouch, Mylar bag, or mason jar will help minimize oxygen exposure. You can also vacuum-seal your jerky to remove any remaining air and keep it fresh for an extended period.

If you plan on storing your jerky for an extended period, consider adding an oxygen absorber to the packaging. This will help maintain the freshness and consistency of your jerky by preventing oxygen from spoiling it.

Another way to prevent mold growth is by using a food-grade desiccant in your packaging. This will help maintain a constant level of moisture in your jerky and limit the concentration of water that can lead to mold growth.

Finally, it’s essential to store your beef jerky in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. High humidity or warm temperatures can encourage mold growth, so avoid storing your jerky in the refrigerator unless it is vacuum-sealed.

By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious and safe beef jerky without worrying about mold growth or spoilage.

What To Do If You Accidentally Eat Moldy Beef Jerky

If you accidentally consume moldy beef jerky and experience any symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you don’t experience any symptoms, it’s recommended to consult a medical expert to ensure that there are no underlying health issues.

If you have consumed moldy beef jerky and are not experiencing any symptoms, it’s still important to monitor your health for the rest of the day. If you notice any unusual symptoms such as shortness of breath, elevated temperature, or diarrhea, seek medical help immediately.

It’s important to note that prevention is key when it comes to consuming moldy beef jerky. Always check the jerky for any signs of mold before consuming it. Any molds that have a black, orange, or red appearance can be considered toxic and should be avoided.

If you do happen to consume moldy beef jerky, it’s recommended to add a probiotic into your health regimen and follow a bland diet to help replenish the healthy bacteria in your gut. Additionally, if you have a weak immune system or a history of allergies or asthma, it’s important to contact your doctor and seek treatment if necessary.

Conclusion: Stay Safe And Be Mindful Of Food Safety

To prevent the consumption of moldy or spoiled beef jerky, it’s important to practice proper food safety measures. When purchasing pre-packaged jerky, be sure to check the expiration date and inspect the packaging for any signs of damage or mold growth. Store your beef jerky in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods of time.

When making homemade jerky, it’s crucial to follow strict food safety guidelines to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. Coli. This includes properly handling and storing the meat, as well as using a dehydrator or oven to dry the meat at a temperature of at least 160°F to kill any potential bacteria.

Remember the six factors that affect bacterial growth: food, acid, temperature, time, oxygen, and moisture. By controlling these factors, you can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and reduce your risk of foodborne illness.