“Does this smell funny to you?” How to tell if steak is bad
This guide helps you avoid rancid meat…and the regret that follows.
A spoiled steak can quickly turn a delicious meal into a disastrous one. Knowing the signs of a bad steak is crucial to ensure food safety.
Even if a fresh steak is in the freezer, it can go bad. Craving a juicy steak only to discover it’s spoiled is incredibly frustrating.
To prevent this from happening, you need to be able to know the signs that your steak is no longer safe to eat. In this guide, we’ll show you how to tell if steak is bad so you can enjoy this classic dish without any worries.
Why Does Steak Go Bad?
Steak, like other meat, can spoil because of bacterial growth. Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments. Improper storage, such as leaving meat out at room temperature for too long, or freezing it incorrectly, can quickly spoil it.
7 Signs Your Steak Is Bad
A few key signs will tell you whether or not your steak is bad. Here are seven of them:
Check the Expiration Date
The expiration date is one of the most straightforward ways to assess the safety of your steak. If the expiration date has passed, it’s best to avoid eating the meat, even if it appears fine visually.
Eating expired steak poses the risk of foodborne illness. Always check the expiration date when you’re at the supermarket; this will give you an idea of how long the meat will last.
Remember, while the expiration date is a guideline, fresh meat can sometimes last longer or spoil sooner. If you’re unsure, discard the meat.
If the expiration date is too close to the day you plan to eat it, consider freezing it for later use. Label the steak with your purchase date to keep track of its time in the freezer.
Check the Color
Look closely at the steak’s color. If it appears discolored, it may indicate that the meat has spoiled. Spoilage can cause the meat to develop brown, yellow, or green patches.
Fresh meat typically shows a vibrant red color because of myoglobin, a protein that indicates freshness. As the meat spoils, it loses oxygen, resulting in color changes. If you notice any unusual colors, it’s wise to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Check the Texture
Gently feel the steak to assess its texture. If the surface feels slimy or sticky, this suggests bacterial corruption.
Fresh steak should feel firm; if it feels tough, dry, or rubbery, it indicates that it may have gone bad. Texture changes are often the first signs of spoilage, so trust your instincts. If it doesn’t feel right, it’s better to throw it away.
Check the Smell
If you’re still unsure after your initial checks, take a moment to smell the meat. Fresh beef should have a neutral smell, while spoiled steak often emits sour or ammonia-like odors.
If something seems off, discard the meat. The smell is one of the most reliable indicators of whether your cooked steak is still good.
Check for Mold
Inspect the steak’s surface for any signs of mold. Mold, which can appear white, green, or black, indicates the steak is no longer safe.
Don’t eat meat showing any mold, as it can make you ill.
Check the steak for dryness
A steak that appears dry is likely past its prime. Bacteria can cause dryness. Note that oxidation is different from spoilage.
If the meat has specifically dried out to exposure to light or heat, it’s time to toss it. Dry-aged steaks should retain moisture, yet you should discard them if they become overly tough or dry.
Cook a Small Piece
If you’re still uncertain about the steak’s freshness, try cooking a small piece. It cooks in much less time and gives us a “preview.”
If the small piece tastes off, discarding the entire cut is best. However, if it tastes good, you can confidently cook the rest. While cooking, pay attention to the appearance and smell. If something seems unusual, throw it away.
Ensuring your steak’s safety is essential for your health and quality of life for the next 24 hours!
How to Store Steak the Right Way
To keep from needing to know how to tell if a steak is bad, you should store your meat properly.
- Refrigerator: Raw steak needs to be kept in the coldest section of your fridge. The ideal temperature is lower than 40°F (4°C). Wrap it tightly in butcher paper or plastic wrap to prevent air exposure.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze steak in airtight packaging. Label it with the freeze date to track its freshness.
- Thawing: When thawing frozen steak, always opt for the refrigerator method. This slow, steady process minimizes bacterial growth. Do not thaw meat at room temperature or in a microwave. These methods can let harmful bacteria grow.
The Impact of Storage on Steak Quality
The way you store your steak significantly impacts its quality and shelf life. Proper storage can help maintain its flavor, tenderness, and safety.
Refrigerator Storage: If you plan to cook your steak within a few days, store it in the refrigerator. Wrap it tightly in butcher paper or plastic wrap to prevent air exposure.
Freezer Storage: For longer-term storage, freeze your steak in airtight packaging. Label it with the date to track its freshness. When freezing, consider vacuum-sealing to minimize freezer burn.
Follow these tips, and be mindful of the signs of spoilage. Don’t risk it.
Final Thoughts
Being aware of the signs of bad steak is important. If you’re not sure whether the steak is safe to eat, discard it.
It’s important to know that the symptoms of spoilage can differ by meat type. Familiarize yourself with these signs to be sure your steak is safe to eat. If you’ve ever had food poisoning, you know it’s better to be safe than sorry.
When in doubt, throw it out!