Rainbow sheen on cold cuts: Safe to eat or toss it out?
Cold cuts are one of our favorite sandwich toppings. However, we often wonder whether they are fresh when they display a characteristic rainbow sheen. Should you eat such ham, or is it better to throw it away?
Rainbow sheen on cold cuts
One question that often puzzles us is the colorful sheen on the ham that resembles a rainbow. This detail can make many people uneasy, making them wonder whether they should eat or discard it. Some say it’s due to chemicals; others think the cold cut has become stale, while others don't pay attention to it.
It turns out that these colorful slices are merely a change in the meat's structure caused by the movement of fibers and light hitting the surface. This refracted light causes the characteristic "rainbow" colors to appear on the cold cuts. Therefore, it doesn't indicate anything harmful, and we can eat it without concern.
When are cold cuts not suitable for consumption?
After purchasing or opening our ham, we often wonder how long it remains safe to eat. Unfortunately, we cannot always rely solely on the expiration date. Therefore, we have to assess for ourselves whether it might be spoiled. It's best to pay attention to the quality and appearance of the ham during purchase, as this will indicate its freshness.
The first indication that the product is not fit for consumption is its smell. The ham is unsuitable for eating if there's an unpleasant, sour, or rotten odor. Another sign is a slimy texture and a color change. If the ham is not slightly pink but has a gray or green tint, it indicates spoilage. Mold is an absolute sign that excludes eating the cold cut. Even if it appears on a small piece, the whole should be discarded. Consuming even a small amount can lead to unpleasant health consequences.
