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How can you tell if there is white mold on bread?

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Leslie Chartier
Leslie Chartier
Executive Personal Chef
06/05/25 12:44am
If it smells sharp or “off,” that’s a giveaway. Sourdough will naturally smell sour, but Wonder Bread shouldn't. Feel the texture too—mold isn’t as smooth as the bread.

Most bread mold eventually turns blue, which makes it easier to identify. If it’s still white, smell and texture are your best bets. Also, if you want bread to last longer, store it in the fridge or freezer.
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Chef Jeff Woodward
Chef Jeff Woodward
Private Chef
07/29/25 4:54pm
Most of the time, you can tell by smell or feel. Mold will have a distinctive smell, and flour will have a different feel.

Keeping as much air out of the storage container as possible will help keep the bread fresh and mold-free.
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wikiHow Editorial Team
wikiHow Editorial Team
04/09/25 6:39pm
Do you see a white substance on your bread, but you're not sure if it's white mold or flour? Here's how to tell.
  • Location: Mold can grow deep below the surface of the bread, while flour is usually just sprinkled on the top of the loaf.
  • Texture: Mold can appear fuzzy, while flour is powdery.
  • Color: Mold can be white, gray, green, blue, or other off-white colors, while flour is typically just white.
You can prevent the growth of white mold by storing the bread in a bread box, resealable plastic bag, or plastic wrap.

How do you tell if a white substance on your bread is white mold or flour? Let us know in the comments below!
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Ayyat Shakeel
Ayyat Shakeel
04/23/25 4:23pm
Great tips! I always check the texture first—if it looks fuzzy or has a strange smell, I don’t take any chances. Better safe than sorry when it comes to mold!
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