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?

Step 2: Check the Expiration Date and Storage

If the meat passes the visual, olfactory, and tactile tests, check the expiration date on the package. If it’s past the date or if the meat has been sitting in the fridge for longer than recommended, it’s safer to err on the side of caution and dispose of it.

Additionally, how you store deli meat plays a significant role in how long it stays fresh. Make sure it was kept in an airtight container or tightly wrapped. Deli meat that’s left exposed to air or improperly stored is more likely to spoil faster.

Step 3: What to Do if It’s Slightly Off but Not Spoiled

If your deli meat doesn’t pass all the freshness tests but isn’t quite spoiled, you may still be able to salvage it. Here are a few ways to breathe new life into deli meat that’s starting to look a little worse for wear:

• Cook It: Even if the deli meat looks a little off, cooking it can help kill any bacteria and make it safer to eat. Use it in a cooked dish, like a casserole, soup, or stir-fry, where it can blend with other ingredients, and the heat will give it a fresh taste.
• Make a New Dish: Consider using the deli meat as a component in a dish where it doesn’t need to be the star. For example, you can chop it up and mix it with eggs for an omelet, or toss it into a pasta salad, where the added flavors and seasonings will help mask any slight imperfections.
• Refrigerate or Freeze for Later: If you’ve opened the package and don’t want to throw it away just yet, wrap the deli meat tightly and store it in the freezer. Freezing won’t restore its original texture, but it can prevent further spoilage until you’re ready to use it.

Step 4: When to Toss It

If the deli meat fails all tests — especially if it smells foul or has an unpleasant texture — it’s better to be safe than sorry. Foodborne illnesses from spoiled deli meats can be serious, so don’t hesitate to toss it if you have any doubts about its safety.

Step 5: Reduce Food Waste Going Forward

To avoid this dilemma in the future and reduce food waste, here are a few tips:

• Plan Meals Carefully: If you buy deli meat in bulk, make sure you have a plan for how to use it before it spoils. You can even freeze portions of it if you don’t plan to use it right away.
• Use the Right Storage: Invest in airtight containers or bags to keep deli meat fresh for longer. Also, keep your fridge at the right temperature (around 40°F or 4°C) to slow down spoilage.
• Use Leftovers Creatively: If you find that you’re constantly with leftovers or older deli meat, get creative with incorporating them into recipes that can refresh the meat, such as sandwiches, wraps, or homemade pizzas.

Conclusion

While your mother-in-law may have a point about food waste, it’s important to use your judgment when it comes to deli meat’s freshness. By assessing the meat’s condition, using it in creative ways if it’s still safe, and storing it properly, you can avoid waste while still ensuring you’re eating safely. Remember, when in doubt, it’s better to toss it than to risk foodborne illness.