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?

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To extend freshness:
πŸ”ΉΒ Keep it cold:Β Store in the coldest part of the fridge (below 40Β°F / 4Β°C).
πŸ”ΉΒ Seal it tight:Β Use airtight containers or wrap tightly in plastic/cling film.
πŸ”ΉΒ Label it:Β Note the date you opened it to track freshness.

What to Do If You’re Unsure

If the meat looksΒ questionable but not clearly spoiled, consider:

  • Cooking it thoroughlyΒ (in soups, casseroles, or stir-fries) to kill bacteria.

  • CompostingΒ (if your compost system handles meat).

Final Verdict: Safety Over Waste

While reducing food waste is important,Β your health comes first. If the deli meat looks or smells bad, toss it. If your mother-in-law protests, explain the risksβ€”no one wants a foodborne illness over a few slices of ham!

Bottom line:Β Trust your gut (literally). If something seems off, it’s not worth the risk.

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