Pulled out some deli meat from fridge. My mother-in-law says it’s wasteful not to use it, but it looks bad to me. What should I do?

#### Step 4: When to Toss It

If the deli meat fails all tests — especially if it smells foul or has an unpleasant texture — it’s better to be safe than sorry. Foodborne illnesses from spoiled deli meats can be serious, so don’t hesitate to toss it if you have any doubts about its safety.

#### Step 5: Reduce Food Waste Going Forward

To avoid this dilemma in the future and reduce food waste, here are a few tips:

– **Plan Meals Carefully**: If you buy deli meat in bulk, make sure you have a plan for how to use it before it spoils. You can even freeze portions of it if you don’t plan to use it right away.

– **Use the Right Storage**: Invest in airtight containers or bags to keep deli meat fresh for longer. Also, keep your fridge at the right temperature (around 40°F or 4°C) to slow down spoilage.

– **Use Leftovers Creatively**: If you find that you’re constantly with leftovers or older deli meat, get creative with incorporating them into recipes that can refresh the meat, such as sandwiches, wraps, or homemade pizzas.

#### Conclusion

While your mother-in-law may have a point about food waste, it’s important to use your judgment when it comes to deli meat’s freshness. By assessing the meat’s condition, using it in creative ways if it’s still safe, and storing it properly, you can avoid waste while still ensuring you’re eating safely. Remember, when in doubt, it’s better to toss it than to risk foodborne illness.