In this short article, we will answer the question “How long is deli meat good for?” and will show you how to tell if it is bad.
How long is deli meat good for?
Deli meat survives for a day or two after the printed date and has a life span of up to two weeks. You only have between three and five days of safekeeping after you open it.
Any cold meats that you have chopped at the deli station are subject to the same time restriction. Obviously, such times only apply if the meat has already been kept chilled continually.
The deli meat might not remain in good condition for the specified time if it was left out on the counter at the deli for too long or if it was the heat of summer so it took you 1 hour to get home with the groceries. Heat exposure drastically reduces storage time.
Additionally, the quality of the meat itself can occasionally be subpar. While it does taste alright, it only lasts for a day or 2 before it begins to smell. That frequently occurs with both the cold cuts You purchased.
How to spot poor deli meat?
Deli meat spoils quickly and readily. When determining whether your meat cuts are safe to consume, keep these things in mind:
Slime.
It most likely occurs frequently to outdated or subpar deli meat. That slime is saltwater that has been evaporating from the meat and has gathered on the surface. Despite being disgusting, slime doesn’t necessarily render deli meat dangerous to consume.
Also, it might promote the growth of some bacteria. Simply put, toss it. sour, stale, or off the scent. It’s time to throw away your sliced turkey if it no longer has that mouthwatering meaty aroma and instead smells somewhat stale or old.
Alteration in colour.
It’s quite evident that the cuts are no longer good if they start to become grey or brown. The majority of deli meat begins to change inside out.
Mould.
Although deli meat seldom develops mould, you are aware of what to do if it does. Pay particular attention towards the storage duration last but not least.
It’s probably time to throw away any packaged cut meat or deli cuts that have been opened for longer than four to five days.