Discovering Gray Ground Beef

Have you ever opened a package of ground beef and noticed it’s gray? You might assume the meat is spoiled and your dinner plans are ruined. But before you throw it out, take a closer look—gray ground beef might still be safe to eat. Read on to find out when gray ground beef is safe to consume and learn about other signs that indicate if it’s gone bad.

Is Gray Ground Beef Safe to Eat?

The Short Answer: Yes and no.

The Long Answer: Gray ground beef can be safe to eat, depending on where the gray color is located. Freshly cut meat is purplish because of a pigment called oxymyoglobin. When exposed to oxygen, this pigment turns the meat the familiar red color. If the interior of the meat looks gray, it’s likely because it hasn’t been exposed to oxygen, and it’s safe to eat unless there are other signs of spoilage (more on that below).

However, if the exterior or most of the package is gray or brown, the meat is likely spoiling and should be discarded immediately. Pay attention to where the gray color appears, and if you’re uncertain, keep reading for more tips on determining if your ground beef is safe to eat.

How to Tell If Ground Beef Is Bad

Aside from color, check these two other factors to determine if your ground beef is still good to eat:

1. Smell

If the package emits an unpleasant smell when opened, it indicates the meat is starting to spoil. Fresh ground beef shouldn’t have a noticeable odor, so any off-putting smell is a red flag. When in doubt, err on the side of caution, especially if there are other signs of spoilage.

2. Texture

Fresh ground beef should feel firm and break apart easily when squeezed. If it feels slimy or sticky, it’s likely going bad. According to the USDA, a sticky texture could indicate spoilage bacteria. Avoid consuming ground beef with these textures and dispose of it immediately.

The Bottom Line

If the ground beef is gray on the outside or shows other signs of spoilage, it’s best to discard it. But if the meat looks, smells, and feels normal, then it’s safe to use.