What happens to bread when it decomposes?

When bread decomposes, it undergoes a series of changes due to the activity of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. Here's a breakdown:

1. Mold Growth:

* Appearance: You'll likely see fuzzy, colored patches appearing on the bread, often green, white, or black. These are colonies of mold fungi.

* Process: Mold spores are present in the air and land on the bread. With moisture and warmth, they germinate and begin to grow, feeding on the sugars and starches in the bread.

2. Bacterial Activity:

* Appearance: The bread might start to soften, become slimy, or develop an unpleasant odor.

* Process: Bacteria, particularly those from the *Bacillus* and *Pseudomonas* genera, also feed on the bread. They produce enzymes that break down the complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing acids and gases that contribute to the changes in texture and smell.

3. Chemical Changes:

* Breakdown of Starches and Sugars: The enzymes from bacteria and fungi break down the starches and sugars in the bread into simpler molecules like glucose and fructose.

* Production of Acids: Bacteria and fungi release acids as byproducts of their metabolism. This contributes to the souring and softening of the bread.

* Production of Gases: Some bacteria and fungi produce gases like carbon dioxide and methane during their activity. This can lead to bloating or puffiness in the bread.

4. Color Change:

* Brown to Gray: As the bread decomposes, it can turn from its initial brown color to a grayish or even darker hue. This is due to the breakdown of pigments and the growth of pigmented mold.

5. Odor Change:

* Musty to Sour: The odor of decomposing bread can range from musty to sour, depending on the specific microorganisms involved. This is due to the release of volatile compounds produced by the bacteria and fungi.

Overall: Decomposition of bread is a complex process that involves the breakdown of its components by microorganisms. The end result is a visually unappealing, smelly, and potentially harmful substance that is no longer safe to consume.