If you eat a small amount of mold by accident, it often does not cause serious harm, especially if you are otherwise healthy. Some people may feel nauseated, have an upset stomach, vomit, or develop diarrhea, but many people have no symptoms at all.
The main concern is that some molds can produce toxins called mycotoxins. These toxins are more likely to be a problem when moldy foods are eaten often, in larger amounts, or when the mold affects foods such as grains, nuts, or corn. In high exposures, certain mycotoxins can affect the liver or immune system, but this is not the usual outcome after one small accidental bite.
Mold can also grow alongside bacteria, so food that looks or smells moldy should be thrown away. Cutting off the visible mold is not always safe, especially with soft foods, because mold can spread below the surface.
Do not try to treat symptoms with unnecessary medicines. Seek medical care or call Poison Control if you develop repeated vomiting, severe diarrhea, trouble breathing, allergic symptoms, fever, severe abdominal pain, or if you have liver disease, a weakened immune system, or are pregnant.