A video is going viral over social media where vendors are seen picking rotten strawberries and packing them in small plastic boxes that are often used to store and sell the strawberries.
“Food vendors are repackaging old, rotten and fungus-infested strawberries and selling them as fresh. This is not just unethical but a serious health risk. For a little extra money, they are putting people’s health in danger, and there is no check by FSSAI or the Food Safety Department,” wrote Urvashi Agarwal on Instagram captioning the alarming video.
“Eating such strawberries can lead to:
Food poisoning with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Liver damage due to mycotoxins
Respiratory issues like allergies and asthma
Fungal infections, especially for those with weak immunity
Gastrointestinal distress
How are these vendors allowed to sell rotten food so openly? Why is there no action against such practices? Food safety is not a privilege, it is a basic right,” she writes in a long post.
People are worried that these strawberries might end up with street vendors who prepare milkshakes and jams.
Strawberries are delicious and packed with nutrients, but consuming spoiled or moldy strawberries can have serious health consequences. If strawberries are rotten, covered in fungus, or have a foul smell, it’s best to avoid them. Here’s why:
Food poisoning
Eating bad strawberries can lead to food poisoning, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. This happens due to bacterial contamination, especially from pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, which thrive on spoiled fruits.
Mycotoxins from mold
If strawberries have mold, they may contain mycotoxins, toxic substances produced by certain fungi. Mycotoxins can weaken the immune system, cause allergic reactions, and in extreme cases, lead to serious illnesses like liver or kidney damage.
Digestive issues
Rotten strawberries can be difficult to digest and may irritate the stomach lining. People with sensitive stomachs may experience bloating, gas, and discomfort after consuming them.
Allergic reaction
Some people are allergic to mold spores present on spoiled fruits. Eating moldy strawberries can trigger itching, swelling, breathing difficulties, or even anaphylaxis in severe cases.
Preventive measures
Avoid strawberries that are mushy, moldy, or smell off. Rinse under running water to remove bacteria and pesticides. Keep strawberries in the fridge and consume them within a few days.
When in doubt, throw them out! Eating fresh, healthy strawberries is always the best choice for your health.