I took some cold cuts out of the refrigerator. My mother-in-law says it’s a waste not to use them, but it seems wrong to me. What should I do?
There are several telltale signs that a cured meat has gone bad. These include an acidic or unpleasant odor, a slimy or sticky texture, discoloration, and mold growth. If the meat has any of these characteristics, it is best to be cautious and avoid eating it. Trust your senses: if something seems strange to you, it probably isn’t.
The risks of consuming spoiled cured meats
Eating spoiled cured meats can cause foodborne illness, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, this can lead to more serious health problems, especially for the most vulnerable population groups such as young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Understanding these risks emphasizes the importance of making safe choices when it comes to questionable cured meats.
How to store cured meats correctly to prolong their freshness
