Is spoiled ham safe to eat?
Quick Answer
No
Eating spoiled ham can lead to foodborne illness caused by bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, which can grow on meat that’s gone bad.
What Is It?
Spoiled ham is ham that has been left out too long or not properly stored, leading to a change in color, texture, smell, and taste. It is not safe for consumption.
How to Tell
- Change in color: Ham that is turning green or gray may be spoiled.
- Bad smell: Spoiled ham often has a sour, unpleasant smell.
- Change in texture: If the ham feels slimy or sticky, it may be spoiled.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating spoiled ham can pose several health risks, including:
- Food poisoning: This can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- Serious infections: In some cases, foodborne illnesses can lead to more serious conditions, like kidney failure or death.
Safe Method?
Always cook ham to an internal temperature of 145°F and refrigerate leftovers within two hours.
Can You Just Cut It Off?
If only a small part of the ham is spoiled, it may be tempting to cut off the bad part and eat the rest. However, bacteria can spread throughout the meat, so it’s best to discard the entire ham if any part of it is spoiled.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate ham at 40°F or below.’, ‘Use or freeze fresh ham within 3 to 5 days.’, ‘For longer storage, freeze ham at 0°F.