Guanciale; mold?

[davidcross]

My first Guanciale is looking good. It smells clean, fresh, and is firming up nicely after about 3 weeks in the curing chamber at 65% humidity and 55F. First piece slices nicely and it seems great.

 

I've a question…

 

On the outside are some tiny white/straw-colored flecks (ignore darker flecks - this is some remaining Thyme from the cure).

 

They do not penetrate the skin and I am not sure whether it's mold or salt coming out or fat or what.

 

Thoughts? Likely safe?

 

Thank you

Edited April 6, 2016 by Smithy
Added tag (log)

[Chris Hennes]

Almost certainly safe -- if you're concerned about mold growth you could always wipe it down with a vinegar solution, but I don't see anything to worry about in that photo.