Pulled out some deli meat from fridge. My mother-in-law says it’s wasteful not to use it, but it looks bad to me. What should I do?

What’s the real risk if you eat it anyway?

Eating spoiled deli meat isn’t just “a bit risky” – it can mean a full-blown case of food poisoning.

We’re talking about bacteria like Listeria, Salmonella or others that love moist, protein-rich foods like sliced meats. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever and feeling completely wiped out.

For babies, pregnant women, older adults and people with weaker immune systems, the stakes are even higher – complications can be serious.

So yes, wasting a few slices of meat might feel annoying. But gambling with your health (or your family’s) to save a couple of euros is a terrible trade.