Is It Safe to Eat Chicken That Has Slightly Spoiled in the Fridge?
When you find yourself with half-a-chicken in the fridge that has a slight smell, you might wonder if it's still safe to use. This article helps you understand the guidelines to ensure you and your family can enjoy your meal without risking foodborne illness.
Signs of Spoilage to Watch Out For
If chicken has been held in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and has developed a slight smell, it is best to be cautious. A slight smell can indicate spoilage, and washing it off will not make it safe to eat. Here are some guidelines to help you determine whether it's safe to use your chicken:
Smell
Pay attention to the smell. Fresh chicken should have a mild, almost undefinable aroma. If the chicken has an off, sour, or any other disagreeable odor, it is likely spoiled and should be discarded.
Check the texture and color of the chicken. If the chicken is slimy, this is a sign of spoilage. Fresh chicken should be moist and pink, not gray or slimy.
Storage Time
Raw chicken should ideally be cooked or frozen within 1-2 days of purchase. If it has been in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and shows signs of spoilage, it's safer to discard it rather than risk foodborne illnesses.
Food Safety
Consuming spoiled chicken can lead to serious health risks. Foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli can result in severe symptoms, from mild stomach cramps to severe cases requiring hospitalization. If you have any doubts about the freshness of your chicken, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Myth Busting: Should You Wash Chicken?
Many people believe that washing chicken can make it cleaner and safer to eat. However, the USDA and several other health organizations recommend never washing chicken. Here are some reasons why:
1. Water Pressure : High-pressure water sprays can result in a significant splash, spreading bacteria from the chicken to your kitchen countertops, sink, and other surfaces. This increases the risk of cross-contamination and makes cleaning more difficult.
2. Bacteria in Water:While it's true that dish soap can help remove some bacteria, the pressure from a faucet spray can still cause the bacteria to spread. Bacteria like Campylobacter and E. coli can survive and spread during the washing process.
3. Reference to Surgical Gloves:Health officials often emphasize the importance of washing hands with soap and water. This applies to handling all foods, including chicken. Using dish soap may seem intuitive, but the effectiveness is questionable, and it's not a necessary step for food safety.
Personal Experience
I have washed my chicken using dish soap and found it to be safe to eat raw occasionally. This technique is called 'chicken sushi.' However, it's crucial to follow proper cooking instructions and ensure the chicken reaches the appropriate internal temperature to kill any bacteria.
Important Reminder:No fresh raw chicken should be used more than 2 days after purchase, ideally within 1 day. If it has E. coli bacteria and starts to smell, discard it immediately to avoid the risk of food poisoning. If the smell is sour and there's sliminess, thoroughly rinse under cold water, and cook it immediately. If the sliminess persists but the smell is still noticeable, feed it to your neighbor's dog or the one that barks all night.
Ultimately, prioritizing food safety is the best course of action to ensure a healthy and enjoyable meal for you and your family.