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What Does Bad Ground Beef Smell Like? You Need to Know

The question is what does bad minced meat smell like when the meat no longer looks appetizing and smells stronger than usual. A spoiled product is easy to spot.

What does bad ground beef smell like? How to recognize a spoiled product

Minced meat is one of the most perishable foods. In addition to a brownish discolored surface, bad meat can be clearly identified by its smell.

  • Fresh minced meat smells neutral, mild, or slightly ferrous.
  • If the meat emits a sweet, noticeably sour, or musty smell, the rotting process has already started.
  • Bacteria are responsible for the smell. These break down the proteins contained in the meat into amino acids and fatty acids. The amino acids react with each other and create a strong smell.
  • Not only the smell is a feature. Fresh ground beef also feels cool and only slightly moist. It can be easily divided into fibers and does not stick together. If the flesh feels slippery or has a brownish-gray surface, it’s bad.
  • Good to know: If the inside of the minced meat is grey, this is due to a low oxygen supply and is not in itself a sign of spoiled meat. In such a case, also pay attention to the smell and consistency.
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Written by John Myers

Professional Chef with 25 years of industry experience at the highest levels. Restaurant owner. Beverage Director with experience creating world-class nationally recognized cocktail programs. Food writer with a distinctive Chef-driven voice and point of view.

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