Can you still eat dried sweet potato if it has grown mold?

Dec 08, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
In general, moldy dried sweet potato should not be consumed. When purchasing dried sweet potato, choose products with natural color, dry texture, and no signs of mold or unpleasant odor. After bringing it home, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. During the rainy season, consider placing a desiccant in the container.

Generally, it is not recommended to eat dried sweet potato that has developed mold. The detailed explanation is as follows:

 

Mold growth on dried sweet potato is a clear sign of fungal contamination. These molds can secrete toxins harmful to the human body. Even if the visibly moldy parts are removed, the toxins may have already spread into the surrounding tissue that appears normal. Such toxins are difficult to completely destroy through heating or other methods. Consuming moldy sweet potato may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Long-term or large-scale ingestion can also cause damage to internal organs. Dried sweet potato is rich in carbohydrates and, in humid conditions, easily becomes a breeding ground for mold. Once mold develops, its nutritional value significantly decreases, rendering it unsuitable for consumption.

When purchasing dried sweet potato, choose products with natural color, dry texture, and no signs of mold or unusual odor. After bringing it home, store it in a sealed container placed in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and moisture. During the rainy season, consider placing desiccants in the storage container or periodically taking out the sweet potato for sun-drying to prevent dampness. If the dried sweet potato shows signs of moisture absorption or softening, promptly dry it thoroughly or discard it to prevent mold growth and ensure food safety.