What is black stuff in flesh of orange? - Ask Extension
My mom was eating an orange and bit into something bitter that turned out to be black. Photos show that part and also the rind on the other side, whic...
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What is black stuff in flesh of orange? #294821
Asked December 28, 2015, 2:10 PM EST
My mom was eating an orange and bit into something bitter that turned out to be black. Photos show that part and also the rind on the other side, which shows minor discoloration and very slight indentation, but nothing obviously wrong. The rest of the orange seemed OK. Any ideas what this black stuff could be?
Philadelphia County Pennsylvania
Expert Response
Hi,
I am not a food safety expert but I did find an article that I feel may answer your questions from Tufts University.
http://www.nutritionletter.tufts.edu/issues/10_16/ask-experts/Q-If-I-see-mold-growing-on-an-orange_1...
I believe it was the start of a mold (fungi) that happens quite often in citrus. The peel often becomes soft and then a blue fungus appears on the outside. You may want to check others in your bag and remove them to slow the spread of the decay.
I hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Todd
I am not a food safety expert but I did find an article that I feel may answer your questions from Tufts University.
http://www.nutritionletter.tufts.edu/issues/10_16/ask-experts/Q-If-I-see-mold-growing-on-an-orange_1...
I believe it was the start of a mold (fungi) that happens quite often in citrus. The peel often becomes soft and then a blue fungus appears on the outside. You may want to check others in your bag and remove them to slow the spread of the decay.
I hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Todd
