How to choose fresh and quality meat: 5 important stages

Meat is a valuable, healthy, nutritious, and delicious source of high-quality protein. However, if you don't know how to choose it correctly, you can get seriously poisoned or infected with various parasites. SSPDaily has prepared 5 practical tips to help you buy fresh and healthy meat.

Consider the source

Regardless of whether you buy meat at a local market or in a grocery store, it is important to find out where it came from. This will give you valuable information about its quality and freshness. Look for information about the farm or supplier and, if possible, choose products with clear labels that indicate organic origin.

Examine the meat carefully

The appearance of meat is a key indicator of quality. Pay attention to its color, marbling, and texture. A fresh product should have a bright color that matches its type, as well as a smooth texture without visible signs of discoloration or defects.

Marbling is small white streaks of fat in the muscles that give the meat its flavor and juiciness. However, excessive marbling can indicate a high fat content, so you need to find the right balance to suit your culinary preferences.

The smell of freshness

Fresh meat should have a neutral, slightly sweet odor. If you smell unpleasant or rancid tones, it indicates that it has spoiled.

Check the packaging and label

When buying meat, pay attention to the packaging and labels. They should be intact, without tears or other damage that could jeopardize the quality and safety of the meat. Also, don't forget to check the expiration date.

Consider the processing and cooking method

Different cuts of meat have different levels of tenderness and flavor, making them more suitable for certain cooking methods. For example, fillets are ideal for quick cooking methods such as grilling or breading. Tougher cuts are a good option for slower cooking methods such as braising or stewing.