What Are The Black Spots On Mangoes? Is It Safe To Eat?

Mangoes are a beloved tropical fruit enjoyed by people all over the world. They are sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor. However, you may have noticed some small black spots on the skin of your mango. While these spots may be unsightly, are they safe to eat?

In this article, we will explore the causes of black spots on mangoes, whether they are harmful, and how to properly handle and store mangoes to ensure their freshness and safety.

Whether you’re a die-hard mango fan or a casual fruit enthusiast, understanding the nature of these spots can help you make informed decisions about the mangoes you buy and consume.

What Are The Black Spots On Mangoes?

The black spots on mangoes are usually symptoms of a fungal infection caused by the Colletotrichum gloeosporioides fungus, also called anthracnose. This fungus can infect not only mango fruits, but also leaves and twigs. The signs of anthracnose appear as small, dark circles on the fruit which often become larger over time.

What Causes Black Spots On Mangoes?

Black spots on mangoes are usually caused by a fungal disease known as anthracnose, which is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. This fungus can infect mango fruits, leaves, and twigs, especially in warm and humid climates.

The fungus can enter the fruit through wounds or natural openings such as the stem scar, and cause small circular lesions that are sunken and surrounded by a yellow halo. Over time these lesions grow larger and turn black, hence the name “black spots”.

Other factors that can contribute to black spots on mangoes include high humidity, moisture levels in the orchard, and poor hygiene practices such as failing to pick up fallen fruit from the ground. When an infected fruit falls to the ground, it increases the risk of spreading the disease to other mangoes nearby.

Different types of black spots on mangoes

Black spots on mangoes can be caused by various sources and can vary in appearance.

Here is a list of some common causes of black spots:

• Anthracnose: This is the most common type of black spot, which is caused by a fungus that infects the fruit during growth or after it has been harvested. Anthracnose appears as circular dark spots on the skin, which can spread and cause the fruit to rot.
• Sooty mold: A fungus growing on honeydew from sap-sucking insects such as aphids, scales, and mealybugs create this type of black spotting which creates a powdery appearance that does not harm the quality but may make them unattractive to consume.
• Sunburn: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause mangoes to develop black spots from sunburn; this can lead to cracking and peeling of the skin making them easier prey for pests or diseases.
• Bruising: Fruits that have been transported or handled roughly may develop localized black spots due to bruising; these have no impact on their safety or quality and are more aesthetic in nature than anything else.

There are many causes for black spots on mangoes – some of which could affect their quality while others will not – and proper handling/transportation should be taken into account when dealing with mangoes in order to preserve their optimal condition as much as possible.

Is it safe to eat mangoes with black spots?

Yes, it is generally safe to eat mangoes with black spots. The black spots are usually caused by a fungal infection known as anthracnose and are safe to consume as long as the black spots are not too severe and have not affected a significant portion of the fruit.

However, it is important to inspect the fruit carefully before consuming it to ensure there are no signs of rot or decay. If the spot has spread and caused the fruit to become soft and mushy, it is best to discard the fruit.

For other causes of black spots, such as sunburn, bruises, or sooty mold, it may be safe to eat depending on the severity of the spots. If only a small area is affected and most of the fruit is still good-looking, then it should be fine to consume after cutting away any affected areas.

However, it is important to note that mangoes with black spots may have a shorter shelf life and should be consumed immediately in order to minimize the risk of spoilage.

Factors to consider before eating mangoes with black spots

Before eating mangoes with black spots, there are some factors to consider to ensure the safety and quality of the fruit.

Here are some of the factors to consider:

• Identify the cause of the spots: Mangoes with black spots can be caused by different factors including anthracnose, sunburn, bruises, and sooty mold. Understanding the source of these spots is critical for assessing the safety and quality of the fruit.
• Assess severity of spots: If the black spots are localized and do not affect a large portion of the mango, it may still be safe to eat. If they are covering a larger area or are present in the interior, it is best to discard them.
• Consider when fruit was harvested: Recently harvested fruits with minimal black spotting may still be safe to consume. On the other hand, if it has been stored for some time, these marks could indicate spoilage and should be discarded.
• Take personal preferences into account: Some people may find that mangoes with black spots are unappetizing and prefer not to risk consuming them. It is ultimately a matter of personal preference but understanding the source and severity of the black spots are important for safeguarding one’s health.

Before eating mangoes with black spots there are several factors that must be taken into consideration such as cause, severity, time since harvesting, and personal preference in order to ensure safety and quality when consuming this delicious fruit. 

Risks associated with eating mangoes with black spots

Eating mangoes with black spots can pose some risks depending on the cause and severity of the spots.

Here are some of the risks associated with eating mangoes with black spots:

• Foodborne illnesses: If the black spots on the mangoes are caused by a fungal infection such as anthracnose, then consuming infected fruit can lead to foodborne illnesses and cause symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to mangoes or the fungi that cause black spots on the fruit. Eating these mangoes can trigger an allergic reaction and cause symptoms such as itching, hives, and swelling.
• Spoilage: Mangoes with black spots may have a shorter shelf life and can spoil faster than those without spots. Eating spoiled fruit can lead to foodborne illnesses which come along with its own set of symptoms.
• Reduced nutritional value: The black spots on mangos may indicate that they are overripe or damaged, leading to a loss of nutrients.

It is important to exercise caution if you choose to consume mangoes with black spots since these factors can pose risks for your health.

To minimize risks, it is best to cut away any affected areas before consuming the rest of the fruit. If you are unsure about which areas have been affected, it is better to discard the mango.

Precautions to take when eating mangoes with black spots

Following these simple steps can help you enjoy mangoes with black spots without any health concerns:

• Check mango thoroughly: Before eating, carefully examine the mango to see if there are any signs of mold or fungus growth. If you notice any mold, discard the fruit immediately.
• Cut off the affected part: If the black spots are limited to one area of the mango, cut off that portion and discard it before eating the rest of the fruit. Make sure to wash your knife before and after cutting the mango.
• Wash the mango: Give it a thorough rinse under running water to clean away dirt or bacteria on its surface.
• Eat as soon as possible: Consume the mango right away in order to avoid further deterioration and potential growth of harmful microorganisms.
• Store properly: If you cannot eat it immediately, store in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight, and throw out after a few days at most.

By following these precautions when dealing with mangoes with black spots, you can ensure your safety while still being able to enjoy their delicious flavor without worry.

How To Prevent Black Spots On Mangoes?

Preventing Black Spots on Mangoes can be done by following these simple measures:

• Harvest at the right time – by harvesting mangoes when they are not overripe, you can prevent them from being susceptible to bruising and damages that can lead to black spots.
• Handle with care – handle mangoes gently and avoid dropping or stacking them during transportation or storage.
• Clean tools and equipment – before and after use, clean all tools and equipment with a disinfectant solution to free them from any fungal spores that can infect the mangoes.
• Fungicide treatment – consulting with a professional agricultural specialist for appropriate fungicide treatment for your mango trees will help prevent infections that cause black spots on fruit.
• Proper storage – store mangoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and other fruits that produce ethylene gas. This will reduce the risk of premature ripening and spoilage which could lead to black spots.

By adhering to these measures, you can ensure that your mangoes are healthy, safe, and free from black spots. With proper management and maintenance of your tree, you can enjoy delicious fruit year after year without the worry of dealing with pests or diseases like black spot disease.

Wrapping Up 

Mangoes with black spots can still be enjoyed, as long as you take the proper precautions. Carefully examining the mango for signs of mold or fungus growth and cutting away any affected areas before eating is highly recommended.

Additionally, washing the mango, consuming it as soon as possible, and storing properly can help you enjoy the fruit without any health concerns.