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.