Rope Spoilage in baked goods, suggestions for baked goods that are not susceptible to rope spoilage

I had a case of rope spoilage in some baked goods and it took awhile to get rid of whatever was causing it in my kitchen. I think it’s gone now, but I’m still a little concerned with hosting for the holidays. Does anyone have any suggestions for desserts that would not be susceptible to rope spoilage?

Laura
  • Posted by: Laura
  • December 11, 2023
  • 441 views
  • 3 Comments

3 Comments

Gammy
Gammy December 12, 2023
Wow, never heard of this but yikes, gross! From the US National institute of Health: "As bread is a very important staple food, its spoilage threatens global food security. Ropy bread spoilage manifests in sticky and stringy degradation of the crumb, slime formation, discoloration, and an odor reminiscent of rotting fruit." As an adult, I have always been conscience of a slight off-smell/vinegary taste in many store-bought brands of bread. Not talking about the cheap, squishy white bread, but the more expensive PF and A brands with their added preservatives and conditioners. Could this be the start of rope spoilage? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9564316/#:~:text=As%20bread%20is%20a%20very,odor%20reminiscent%20of%20rotting%20fruit.
 
Emmie
Emmie December 12, 2023
I'd also never heard of it, and after googling--eww. Glad you've hopefully taken care of it, but I appreciate your desire to be cautious! It seems that it only takes hold in bready baked goods, so I'd avoid cakes and the like. Perhaps a pavlova, or a crumble, or mousses/puddings? It seems that it can't grow in dry environments, so drier cookies like gingerbread and biscotti might also be safe bets.
 
Miss_Karen
Miss_Karen December 12, 2023
What is rope spoilage? I have never heard that term.
 
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