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Does Cooking Spoiled Meat Make It Safe?

Last Updated on April 30, 2023 by Lauren Beck

Cooking meat is an important part of many delicious recipes. However, it’s essential to ensure that the meat is fresh and safe to eat before cooking. If you’re wondering whether cooking spoiled meat makes it safe, you’re not alone. 

In this article, we’ll explore this question and other related topics, such as what causes meat to spoil, how to tell if meat is spoiled, and how to prevent meat from going bad.

Does Cooking Spoiled Meat Make It Safe?

No, cooking spoiled meat does not make it safe to eat. When meat goes bad, it can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning, even if it’s cooked thoroughly.

What Happens if You Cook Meat After It Has Gone Bad?

If you cook meat that has gone bad, it may not kill all of the bacteria that have grown on it. This can lead to food poisoning, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.

What Causes Meat to Spoil?

Meat can spoil for several reasons, including:

  • Exposure to air
  • Temperature abuse (not being stored at the correct temperature)
  • Contamination from bacteria or other pathogens
  • Aging (meat that has been stored for too long)

What Makes Spoiled Meat Unsafe to Eat?

Spoiled meat can be unsafe to eat because it can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning. 

These bacteria can produce toxins that can make you sick, even if the meat is cooked thoroughly.

How Long Does Raw Meat Last?

raw steak on a chopping board

The length of time that raw meat lasts depends on several factors, including the type of meat, how it was stored, and the temperature at which it was stored. 

Generally, raw meat should be cooked or frozen within a few days of purchase.

How To Tell If Your Meat Is Spoiled?

There are several signs that meat may be spoiled, including:

  • A sour or off odor
  • A slimy or sticky texture
  • A discolored appearance
  • Visible mold growth
  • An unusually soft or mushy texture

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw the meat away.

Preventing Meat From Going Bad

There are several ways to prevent the meat from going bad [1], including:

  • Storing meat at the correct temperature (below 40°F)
  • Keeping meat refrigerated until it’s ready to be cooked
  • Freezing meat that won’t be used within a few days
  • Cooking meat to the correct temperature to kill any harmful bacteria

What You Should Do If You Eat Spoiled Meat?

If you eat spoiled meat and experience symptoms of food poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever, it’s important to seek medical attention. 

In some cases, food poisoning can be severe and require hospitalization.

Is All Spoiled Food Dangerous To Eat?

Not all spoiled food is dangerous to eat, but it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw it away. 

While some foods may only cause mild stomach upset, others can be more serious and lead to severe illness.

How To Kill Bacteria In Spoiled Food?

Cooking can kill some bacteria in spoiled food, but it’s not a guarantee. To ensure that any harmful bacteria are destroyed, it’s best to throw away spoiled food.

Conclusion

Cooking spoiled meat does not make it safe to eat, and consuming spoiled meat can lead to food poisoning. It’s important to store and handle meat properly to prevent spoilage and to throw away any meat that shows signs of spoilage. If you suspect that you may have eaten spoiled meat and experience symptoms of food poisoning, seek medical attention immediately. By following these tips and guidelines, you can help ensure that the meat you cook and eat is safe and delicious.

Reference:

  1. https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/shopping-storing/food/how-to-store-meat
Lauren Beck

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