Is spoiled chicken safe to eat?
Quick Answer
No
Eating spoiled chicken can result in food poisoning, which can cause uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous symptoms, including stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.
What Is It?
Spoiled chicken is chicken that has gone bad or is past its safe consumption date. It may have an off smell, slimy texture, and an unusual color.
How to Tell
- Unpleasant smell: Spoiled chicken often has a strong, sour smell.
- Change in color: Fresh chicken is a light pink color with white fat. If it turns gray or greenish, it may be spoiled.
- Slimy or sticky texture: If the chicken feels slimy or sticky even after washing, it is likely spoiled.
- Past its ‘sell by’ or ‘use by’ date: While these dates aren’t definitive, they’re a good indicator of when chicken may start to spoil.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating spoiled chicken can lead to foodborne illness, commonly known as food poisoning.
- Salmonella and Campylobacter: These bacteria are the most common causes of food poisoning from chicken.
- E. coli: This bacteria can also cause food poisoning and is often present in spoiled chicken.
- Listeria: This bacteria can cause a serious infection called listeriosis, which can be fatal in people with weakened immune systems.
Safe Method?
Always cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria. If you suspect the chicken is spoiled, it’s best to throw it away.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate or freeze chicken as soon as possible after purchasing.’, ‘Store chicken at a temperature below 40°F (4°C).’, ‘Use or freeze chicken within 1-2 days of purchase.
Preparation Tips
Wash your hands and kitchen surfaces before and after handling raw chicken.’, ‘Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken.