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?

**What to Do When Deli Meat Looks Bad: Don’t Waste It, But Be Cautious!**

We’ve all been there: you pull out some deli meat from the fridge, ready to make a quick lunch or snack, and immediately wonder if it’s still safe to eat. It looks a little off, perhaps a bit slimy or discolored, and your first instinct is to throw it away. However, your mother-in-law, who’s always full of practical advice, says it’s wasteful not to use it. So, what’s the right call? Should you trust your instincts or try to salvage the deli meat?

Don’t worry – you’re not alone in this dilemma! Food safety and freshness are serious matters, and it’s important to know when it’s okay to use something and when it’s better to toss it. Let’s dive into the best practices for handling deli meat, how to judge if it’s still good to eat, and how to minimize waste without compromising your health.

### Step 1: Check the Expiration Date

The first step is to check the **expiration date** or “use by” date on the deli meat packaging. If the meat is past this date, it’s better to err on the side of caution and throw it away. Expired deli meat can harbor harmful bacteria, even if it looks or smells okay. Most deli meats are highly perishable, and eating expired items increases the risk of foodborne illness.

If the date is still valid, you can move on to the next checks.

### Step 2: Look for Visual Signs of Spoilage

Deli meat can spoil quickly due to its high moisture content and exposure to air, but there are a few signs to look out for to determine if it’s gone bad:

– **Color Changes**: Deli meats that have turned a **grayish** or **greenish** color could be a sign of spoilage. Some discoloration can happen naturally with certain types of meats, but a significant color change isn’t a good sign. Ham may turn a bit darker, for example, but if it’s a shade you don’t recognize, it’s time to discard it.

– **Sliminess**: A slimy texture on deli meat is one of the clearest indicators that it’s gone bad. Fresh deli meat should be firm and smooth to the touch. If it feels slippery or sticky, it’s best to toss it.

– **Mold**: If you see any **mold** (green, blue, or white spots) on the meat, it’s definitely not safe to eat. Mold can develop on deli meat, especially if it’s not properly stored, and consuming it can cause foodborne illness.

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