What tactile sensation on meat or poultry signals bacterial growth requiring immediate disposal?
Answer
A slimy or sticky film.
Textural assessment forms the third component of the critical 'See it, Smell it, Touch it' checklist, providing tactile feedback about the food's surface condition. For high-protein foods like meat and poultry, the appearance of a slimy or sticky coating is a significant indicator of active bacterial proliferation. This texture means that surface bacteria have multiplied to a point where they are creating a biofilm or exudate on the food. If handling the meat reveals it feels tacky or unusually slick to the touch, it is a major red flag indicating that microbial growth is advanced, and the preparation should be halted immediately to prevent illness.
Related Questions
What is the reliability of sensory checks against dangerous pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli?What is the primary indicator of gas production in canned goods signaling Clostridium botulinum risk?What factor determines if a slight surface color change in red meat is spoilage versus oxidation?Besides mold, what visual sign might liquid dairy like milk show before a sour smell is overwhelming?For many food categories, which sensory indication is arguably the most reliable indicator of spoilage?If home-canned low-acid food processing is suspect, for how long must it be vigorously re-boiled before tasting?What textural shift indicates degradation in crisp foods like lettuce or celery?What does a "Best By" date primarily indicate regarding the food item's characteristics?Which physical characteristic of a can mandates discarding it unopened due to potential botulism risk?What tactile sensation on meat or poultry signals bacterial growth requiring immediate disposal?