Why is there mold growing in your product?

22 Feb Why is there mold growing in your product?

1. Moisture Content

• High Water Activity (Aw): Granola bars should have a low water activity (≤0.60) to prevent mold growth. Ingredients like dried fruit, honey, or syrups can increase water activity if not properly controlled.
• Improper Drying: If ingredients like oats, nuts, or fruits are not sufficiently dried before mixing, they can introduce excess moisture.
• Condensation: Moisture can accumulate inside packaging if bars are not cooled properly before wrapping.

2. Packaging Issues

• Poor Sealing: Oxygen exposure can allow mold spores to thrive. Proper vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-flushed packaging helps extend shelf life.
• Non-Airtight Containers: If stored in a humid environment, granola bars can absorb moisture from the air.
• Defective Barrier Materials: Packaging that is not moisture-resistant can allow humidity to penetrate.

3. Ingredient Contamination

• Spoiled Raw Materials: Ingredients like nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate can carry mold spores if not properly processed or stored.
• Improper Storage: Storing ingredients in high-humidity conditions before production can lead to mold contamination.
• Cross-Contamination: Shared equipment or surfaces that are not sanitized can transfer mold spores.

4. Storage & Handling

• High Humidity & Temperature: Storing granola bars in warm, humid environments encourages mold growth. Ideal storage conditions are cool and dry (<60% RH, 50–70°F).
• Extended Shelf Life: If granola bars are stored beyond their intended shelf life, mold can develop even if initial conditions were good.

5. Preservative Deficiency

• Lack of Mold Inhibitors: Preservatives like sorbic acid, calcium propionate, or natural antimicrobials (e.g., rosemary extract) help prevent mold growth.
• Unstable pH: If pH is too high, mold has a better chance of growing. Granola bars typically don’t have an acidic pH to naturally prevent mold.

Prevention Tips:

✅ Maintain low water activity in formulations.
✅ Ensure packaging is moisture-proof and properly sealed.
✅ Store ingredients and finished products in a dry, cool environment.
✅ Use mold-inhibiting preservatives if necessary.
✅ Implement strict sanitation and quality control in production.