Can you still eat a mango when it turns black?
Apr 18, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Whether blackened mangoes are edible depends on the cause of the discoloration. If the blackening of the mango's skin is due to physical damage such as squeezing or bruising, and the affected area is relatively small, with no changes in color or abnormal odor in the inner flesh, it is generally safe to eat. However, if the skin and interior of the mango have both turned black due to prolonged storage or improper storage conditions, it is usually not safe to consume.
Whether blackened mangoes are edible usually depends on the cause of the discoloration. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Edible
If the darkening is due to improper transportation or storage causing physical damage such as squeezing or bruising, which leads to oxidation of phenolic compounds in the peel into quinones, and if the blackened area is small with no color changes or abnormal odor in the internal flesh, the mango is generally still safe to eat.
2. Not edible
If the mango has changed color and turned black due to prolonged storage or improper storage conditions leading to spoilage, and both the skin and the interior have turned black, it is generally not safe to consume.
Unhealthy eating habits may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. In such cases, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly for treatment and symptom relief.
