Can you get sick from eating rotten meat?
Finding a forgotten piece of meat in the fridge can be unsettling. It raises a crucial question: can we eat it safely? The answer is no; eating rotten meat can indeed make you sick.
When meat rots, it undergoes decomposition. During this process, bacteria multiply and produce harmful substances called toxins. These toxins can seriously affect our digestive system.
One common bacteria found in spoiled meat is Salmonella. This bacteria can cause severe food poisoning with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Another dangerous bacteria is Clostridium botulinum, which produces a strong neurotoxin. This toxin can lead to botulism, affecting the nervous system and potentially causing muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, and paralysis.
Not all bacteria in rotten meat are harmful. Some, known as spoilage bacteria, are not dangerous but can spoil the meat's taste and texture.
To prevent illness from spoiled meat, practicing good food hygiene is essential. Always check the expiry dates on meat packages and refrigerate them promptly. If meat smells off or looks questionable, it’s best to discard it.
When it comes to eating meat, safety should be a priority. If you discover a forgotten piece of meat in your fridge, it's wiser to throw it away to ensure a healthier meal.
