How Can I Tell When Meat is Unsafe to Eat?

Answer by  kiwee87 (141)

If it smells, is slimy or has discoloration, it is best to toss it. The "Sell by" date is not an expiration date, however the meat is not good very long afterwards.

Answer by  Betty0320 (734)

An "off" smell is one of the indicators that a piece of meat is unsafe to eat. If the meat has turned a greyish color, it's safer not to eat it, even when cooked. Unsafe meat will sometimes look and feel slimy and leaves a lot of residue or fluid on whatever surface it's put on.

Answer by  melissahasty (40)

Generally, if it stinks I throw it in the garbage. The smell and the color of the meat are the most important factors in determining whether to toss it or cook it.

Answer by  MaxCTurk (24)

If it has mold, smells off, feels slimy, or tastes odd then it's gone bad. Sometimes you can also tell when the packaging has more fluid than it used or if it looks inflated.

Answer by  Anita27 (656)

As long as the meat looks and smells ok, and is not slimey or dry it is alright to eat after the sell-by date.

Answer by  dunk541 (49)

If the dog will still eat it, it may still be off. However cats are much more discerning. (Not with fish though)