When it comes to spoiled meat, there’s a lot of confusion. Many people think that it’s due to the quality of the meat or how it was cooked, but the truth is that the number one cause of spoiled meat is actually improper storage. Without the proper storage methods, even the highest quality cuts of meat can quickly become spoiled and unsafe to eat.

The main culprit behind spoiled meat is bacteria. In order for bacteria to grow, the environment must be conducive to its growth. Bacteria thrive in warm, humid places, which means that leaving meat out at room temperature for even a short period of time can create the perfect conditions for bacteria to multiply. As a result, it’s important to always store meat in the refrigerator or freezer.

In addition to improper storage, bacteria can also grow due to cross-contamination. If raw meat comes into contact with any other food, such as fruits or vegetables, the bacteria from the raw meat can contaminate the other food and cause spoilage. It’s important to keep raw meat separate from any other food and to thoroughly wash any utensils, cutting boards, or countertops that have been in contact with raw meat.

Finally, it’s important to check the sell-by and use-by dates on meat packages before purchasing and consuming. While these dates are not exact expiration dates, they can provide some indication of how long the meat has been stored and when it should be consumed by. If the date has passed, it’s best to avoid the meat and find a different option.

So, to answer the original question, the number one cause of spoiled meat is improper storage. Bacteria can quickly multiply in warm, humid environments, and without proper storage methods, meat can quickly become unfit for consumption. To ensure the safety of your meat, always store it in the refrigerator or freezer, avoid cross-contamination, and check sell-by and use-by dates when possible.