10 Things to Look For When Buying Meat (And How to Buy the Best Quality Meat)

When we buy red meat, most of us look for that beautiful piece of meat with a bright red appearance on the shelf. But did you know that fresh meat is actually purplish in color? When exposed to air, the pigments in the flesh react with oxygen to form the red color we all know so well. And what about dark meat? Is it spoiled? Read on to see what to look for when buying fresh meat!

1. Flesh Color:

The right color depends on the type of meat you're buying. Red meat should be dark in color and can range from purple, red, and brown. If it's brown, it simply means it's been exposed to oxygen. It's still safe to eat! Pork should be a light pink color, while game meat should be dark brown. Poultry can range from blue-white to yellow depending on the animals' diet. 2. The smell:

Smell is the best way to determine if meat is still fresh. If the odor is pungent or smells like rotting flesh, stay away!

3. Look for clean cuts:

Good quality meat is recognizable by its smooth, even cuts. Stay away from meat with jagged edges.

4. The surface of the meat:

Examine the meat carefully to assess its grain. A coarse grain indicates tough, flavorful meat, suitable for low-and-slow cooking. High-quality meat, such as beef tenderloin, will have a finer grain and be more tender when cooked.