Food - Drink
How To Tell If Deli Meat Has Gone Bad
By GILLIE HOUSTON
Deli meat, like other animal products, is prone to growing bacteria if stored improperly, which can cause serious food poisoning. Cold cuts should be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator immediately after buying, where it will keep for 3-5 days, but knowing the signs of potential spoilage will help you more than relying on a time estimate.
The first indicator that your deli meat may be spoiled is a notable change in appearance: if the meat has taken on a brown, gray, or yellowish hue, or if you notice any mold growth, it should be tossed right away. If the appearance of the meat seems normal, give it a sniff, and if there’s a foul, sour, or unusual scent, the meat has gone bad.
The texture of deli meat can also tell you how fresh it is; meat that has gone bad often develops a slimy film on the surface, which is a good indicator that it is no longer safe to eat. If you find that your meat often spoils before you can eat it all, know that deli meat can last in the freezer for up to 2 months, as long as it's not already past its prime.