Is It Safe To Eat Meat In Bloated Packaging?

You've probably seen it firsthand: That package of ground beef or vacuum-sealed chicken you brought home from the grocery store suddenly looks different than when you dropped it in your shopping cart. The package is bloated and funny looking, but is it suspect? Is meat that has swollen in its packaging gone bad or was it spoiled to begin with?

To get to the bottom of this food safety issue, Southern Living connected with Lena Bakovic, a registered dietician and nutritionist.

Why Does Meat Swell in its Packaging?

Meat swelling in its packaging can mean a couple of things, explains Bakovic, who works with Top Nutrition Coaching, a network of leading dietitians and nutritionists.

"Some meats are packaged using what is called MAP, or modified atmosphere packaging,” says Bakovic, adding that this type of packaging involves adding gas to extend the shelf life of meat products, which in turn causes swelling or bloating.

But, notes Bakovic, swelling can be a sign of spoilage. Packages of meat that are bloated and contain a foul-smelling odor have potentially been contaminated by harmful bacteria and should be discarded immediately.

Is Meat In A Bloated Package Unsafe To Eat?

Swelling caused from MAP is perfectly safe to consume, confirms Bakovic. This meat is not spoiled; it has merely been contained in packaging with gas that is intended to help it retain its color, according to the Modified Atmosphere Packaging website. Modified atmosphere packaging can increase the shelf life of red meat and poultry by several days.

Meat that has become bloated due to bacterial growth is not safe to consume. Even if you don’t detect a funky odor, it's better to get rid of the item. It's not worth the health risk.

Bakovic also recommends checking the packaging carefully, keeping an eye out for any openings or rips. Also, "if it’s past the recommended best-by or use-by date, don’t purchase it or toss it immediately if you’ve already brought it home," advises Bakovic.

Is There Anything You Can Do To Prevent Meat From Swelling In Its Packaging?

Bakovic says, "The simplest thing to do to prevent swelling is to consume the meat when it is fresh and before its expiration date." This is the best-by or use-by date.

"Proper refrigeration of meat is also of utmost importance from a food safety perspective," adds Bakovic.