Diarrhea & stomach cramps
Fever or chills
In severe cases—especially for children, older adults, or immunocompromised people—foodborne illness can be dangerous.
🧊 Tips to Store Deli Meat Safely
Keep your fridge below 40°F (4°C).
Store meat in airtight containers, or wrap tightly in foil or plastic.
Use deli paper between slices to reduce moisture buildup.
Never leave it out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.
♻️ Alternatives to Tossing It (If It’s Borderline)
Still unsure, but don’t want to waste it? If it doesn’t smell or feel off, you can:
Cook it thoroughly (high heat kills most bacteria). Try adding to casseroles, omelets, or grilled sandwiches.
Compost it—but only if your composting system accepts animal products. (Check local guidelines.)
⚠️ Note: Cooking does not make spoiled meat safe. Only use this method with meat that is just nearing its expiration.
✅ Final Takeaway: Don’t Feel Guilty About Playing It Safe
We all want to reduce food waste, but your health comes first. It’s better to toss questionable meat than to risk food poisoning. When it comes to deli meat:
If in doubt, throw it out.
Have you ever had a fridge dilemma like this? Let us know in the comments below or share your best deli meat storage tips!
ADVERTISEMENT
