Can you still eat lychees when their skin turns black?
Oct 11, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhu Xuping
Introduction
Blackened lychee skin means the fruit is not safe to eat. The darkening of the lychee skin is usually due to the growth of bacteria and mold, indicating that the fruit may have started to rot. These microorganisms can cause food spoilage and pose health risks. Additionally, the freshness and taste of the lychee deteriorate as it spoils. Rotten parts often become slimy or discolored and develop an unpleasant taste.
Generally, lychees with blackened skin should not be eaten. The detailed explanation is as follows:
The darkening of lychee skin is usually caused by the growth of bacteria and mold, indicating that the fruit may have started to rot. These microorganisms can spoil food and pose health risks. Black discoloration is often a sign of bacterial or mold growth, which can spread from the skin into the flesh, leading to decay and spoilage. Consuming spoiled lychees may lead to foodborne illnesses such as food poisoning. Furthermore, decay and bacterial contamination raise serious food safety concerns. Pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, and molds can release toxic metabolic byproducts that are harmful to health. In addition, the freshness and taste of lychees deteriorate when they begin to rot. Spoiled areas often become slimy or discolored and develop an unpleasant taste.
Therefore, lychees with blackened skin should not be consumed. For more specific dietary advice, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.
