I’ll never forget the time I stood in a grocery store one night staring at row upon row of identical-appearing packaged meats. It hit me; I didn’t know whether any were actually good and fresh. Everything looked basically the same, similar displays, same labeling, and same bright lighting to make everything appear attractive. Honestly, I used to simply select whichever item appeared to be nearest to me and cross my fingers hoping for the best.
After several poor experiences (one of which included a questionable chicken experience that I would prefer not to recall), I began to give the items I purchased a closer examination. As it turned out, selecting fresh meat is not difficult, it’s merely about observing some minor differences that many people do not observe. After experimenting with a number of different options over time, I found a few easy-to-use methods that significantly reduce my ability to guess when buying.
Now, every time I enter the meat area of a store, I approach with slightly greater confidence and fewer questions.
First check the wrapping (main method)
I now begin by checking the wrapping on each type of packaged meat almost without thinking. While examining the wrapping, if I see it inflated (or loosely wrapped), I will not buy it. Freshly wrapped packaged meat typically appears tightly sealed with minimal to no visible air pockets.
Throughout my experience, tightly wrapped packaging often indicates that the packaged meat did not sit for extended periods of time nor did it endure extreme temperature fluctuations. Anytime I see the packaging become somewhat inflated, it may indicate that there is an issue with the packaging, either that it is past its prime or not as fresh as possible.
Additionally, I also always inspect the wrapping for any holes or tears. Trust me on this, you do not want to ignore those. In the event you find evidence of water escaping or the seal appears compromised, do not attempt to cook away issues. There is likely additional packaging located near the other.
Inspect the color (however, do not over-analyze)
Color confused me for a long period of time. I figured that since darker colors indicated freshness, that wasn’t always true. Here is an extremely simplified explanation based on color that I adhere to currently: beef should appear deep red in color, chicken should appear light pink in color, and pork should display pale pink tones. These represent basic expectations.
Although small variations exist in terms of color, lighting within stores plays games with our perception. Although variation exists, and although you may find colorless or “off” colored meat in certain areas of stores, you no longer attempt to rationalize why it may be okay. One thing I quickly realized was that uncertainty or hesitation is generally an indication that you should choose another option.
Check expiration dates (but understand what those dates represent)
I previously glanced at expiration dates and believed that provided all relevant information regarding their quality. That is not entirely accurate.
“Sell by” dates represent guidelines for retailers regarding how long products may remain on display. “Use by”, “best before”, etc., provides slightly more insight into a product’s actual freshness.
Within my new routines, I consistently seek out packages displaying the latest expiration dates. Yes, I am that individual who selects from the rear of the shelves. Although I recognize it appears somewhat dishonest, it works. Newer stock tends to be placed behind older stock.
While seemingly insignificant, this behavior results in fresher selections nearly every time.
Your feelings matter (without touching anything)
The preceding paragraph seems self-evident, yet for many years I ignored this fact. Even though you cannot feel anything via packaging, texture matters.
Packaged fresh meat should feel firm when touched. If the packaging feels excessively soft or spongy, I immediately return it. Additionally, examine the bottom of the packaging container/tray.
If the packaging contains substantial amounts of liquid, I tend to pass. Some liquid is acceptable; however, excessive quantities are indicative of extended exposure to liquid/temperature conditions.
Through personal experimentation, this single principle has prevented me from purchasing subpar products on numerous occasions.
Smell matters (upon returning home)
Typically you cannot detect the scent of packaged meat in-store; therefore this aspect occurs once you arrive home and unwrap the package.
Fresh meat should have a relatively mild scent or virtually no noticeable odor at all. Strong or unpleasant odors are unacceptable. If there is an unusual odor emanating from the meat, do not attempt to eliminate it during cooking; discard it.
Although discarding food can be frustrating due to wasted resources, trust me, you will not regret avoiding this potential hazard.
Bonus tip: ask a butcher (optional however effective)
This method may seem old-fashioned; nevertheless, it remains effective. On occasion when I visit a store with a butcher present, I simply inquire as to what he or she recommends as his or her selection for the freshest product.
Although initially embarrassing to admit, they generally provide precise knowledge concerning recent deliveries. Throughout my experience, employees are willing to assist consumers providing they are asked a simple question.
Items I no longer purchase (quick checklist)
As mentioned earlier, I developed a mental checklist that continues to operate while shopping. Upon entering the store area where packaged meats are displayed, I evaluate each item prior to purchase using the following criteria:
- all packaging exhibiting excessive inflation
- each package displaying excessive fluid in the packaging tray
- dull-colored and/or odd-looking packaging
- holes or tears in packaging (immediately reject)
Do not consider yourself pickier than others. Rather think of this as developing consistency in evaluating packaged meat.
Ultimately, obtaining the freshest packaged meat requires awareness of a couple of key indicators. Using these observations combined with your intuition will enable you to make informed decisions in regards to obtaining fresher packaged meat. Once you develop a heightened sense of awareness to these factors, you cannot help but continue to identify them even after they have disappeared from view.
Based on my previous experience(s) in shopping for packaged meats, I no longer question my decision-making process when selecting packaged meats. Furthermore, that increased confidence enables grocery shopping to be far less intimidating than prior experiences.
