Can I still eat a mango if it has black spots?
Aug 29, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, whether mangoes with black spots are edible depends on the cause and extent of the spots. If there are only a few black spots, no unpleasant odor, and the flesh has a normal texture, the affected areas can be cut away and the rest of the fruit consumed. However, if there are numerous black spots, an unpleasant odor, or the flesh is soft and mushy, it is not recommended for consumption. In daily life, when purchasing mangoes, one should choose fruits with smooth, unblemished skin and uniform coloration.
Generally speaking, whether a mango with black spots is edible depends on the cause and extent of the spots. If there are only a few black spots, no unpleasant odor, and the flesh has a normal texture, the mango can be consumed after removing the affected areas. However, if there are numerous black spots, an unpleasant smell, or the flesh is soft and rotten, it is not recommended for consumption. Detailed analysis is as follows:
A few black spots on a mango may result from sugar deposition during ripening (known as sugar spots) or slight bruising causing localized oxidation of the flesh. These spots are typically limited to the skin or superficial layers of the flesh. After removing the affected areas, the remaining flesh is usually bright-colored, odorless, and firm, and its consumption does not pose a health risk. It is still safe to ingest the mango's vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fiber.
If the mango has numerous black spots on its surface or extensive internal blackening and rotting, accompanied by a sour or alcoholic smell, and feels soft and mushy when pressed, it has likely been contaminated by mold. Consuming such a mango may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and nausea. Such mangoes should be discarded immediately and not consumed.
In daily life, when purchasing mangoes, choose fruits with smooth, unbroken, evenly colored skins. During storage, avoid pressure and bruising, and keep them in a cool, well-ventilated area or refrigerate them.
