What To Do If You Find a Worm in Your Fruit?

Finding a worm in your fruit can be unpleasant, but it’s not uncommon—especially with organic or homegrown produce. Here’s what you should do if it happens.

1. Don’t Panic – It’s Usually Harmless

Worms found in fruit are typically insect larvae, such as those of fruit flies or moths (e.g., codling moth in apples or the Oriental fruit moth in peaches). While the sight may be unappealing, they are not harmful to human health in most cases. Accidentally ingesting a small larva is unlikely to cause illness.

2. Examine the Fruit

Once you spot a worm, cut the fruit open to assess the damage:

• If the worm is confined to a small area, you can cut it out and eat the rest of the fruit.

• If the fruit is extensively damaged, discolored, moldy, or has a bad smell, it’s best to discard it.