If Deli Meat Looks Like This, It's A Red Flag And You Should Shop Somewhere Else - Tasting Table

Properly stored deli meat is generally good for about two weeks in the fridge, but dried-out edges around the slices are an immediate red flag. Hard, crusty, dried-out edges indicate the meat is spoiled and should be thrown away. Slimy deli meat can be a sign of spoilage, but it does not always mean the meat is rotten. If freshness is uncertain, ask deli staff when the product was last sliced and how frequently the case is restocked. Staff responses can help determine whether the deli is trustworthy and whether the product should be purchased.

"“I take a very serious view of any dried-out areas around the edges of the deli meat I purchase,” McShane said. Properly-stored deli meat is generally good for about two weeks in the fridge, but if you purchase a pack - either pre-packaged or freshly-sliced - and you notice it's dried out, that could mean that it's not very fresh, according to McShane."

"“Many sources warn against consuming slimy deli meat, and while this is often an indicator that it has gone bad, it doesn't always mean that it's rotten; in fact, it might still be good to eat. However, if the edges of the meat are hard, crusty, and dried out, that's a telltale sign that it's spoiled and should be discarded.”"

"“If you ever feel uncertain about the freshness of your product, there's nothing wrong with politely asking questions such as, 'When was my product last sliced? And how frequently does the case get restocked?'"

"“How the deli staff answers your questions should give your insight into whether or not it's a deli to be trusted.”"

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