Oxidation vs. Rancidity in Meat: How to Keep Your Meat Fresh and Flavorful

JJ Bison
2 days ago
2 min read

Oxidation and rancidity are two different chemical processes that can occur in meat. Oxidation is a natural process that occurs when meat is exposed to oxygen and is not harmful to consume. Rancidity is a process that causes meat to develop an unpleasant smell and taste that is not safe to eat.

Oxidation

Oxidation is a chemical process that occurs when oxygen atoms react with other molecules. When meat is exposed to oxygen, the oxygen atoms react with the fat molecules in the meat. This reaction produces free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage other molecules in the meat. This process starts immediately after cutting the meat, so it is possible that despite vacuum sealing and freezing meat soon after the butcher some of the meat has started oxidation.

Oxidation can cause the meat to change color, texture, and flavor. The color of meat may change from red to brown or gray. The texture of meat may become tougher and more fibrous. The flavor of meat may become metallic or sour. Oxidation can also reduce the nutritional value of meat and can destroy essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals in the meat.

Rancidity

Rancidity is a process that causes meat to develop an unpleasant smell and taste. Rancidity is caused by the breakdown of fat molecules in the meat.

Rancidity can cause the meat to smell and taste inedible. Rancid meat is not safe to eat and should be discarded.

Preventing Oxidation and Rancidity

There are a number of things that can be done to prevent oxidation and rancidity in meat. These include:

Storing meat in the refrigerator or freezer. This will slow down the oxidation process.
Vacuum-sealing meat. This will remove the oxygen from the packaging and prevent oxidation.
Seal your meat and keep your produce uncut until you're ready to use it, because oxidation begins as soon as you cut them.

How to Tell if Meat is Rancid

It is important to be able to tell if meat is rancid before eating it. Rancid meat is not safe to eat and can cause food poisoning.

Here are some signs that meat may be rancid:

The meat has an unpleasant smell.
The meat has a slimy texture.
The meat has a metallic or sour taste.
The meat has changed color, such as from red to brown or gray.

If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the meat.

Conclusion

Oxidation and rancidity are two chemical processes that can occur in meat. Oxidation can cause the meat to change color, texture, and flavor. Rancidity causes meat to develop an unpleasant smell and taste.

There are a number of things that can be done to prevent oxidation and rancidity in meat, such as storing meat in the refrigerator or freezer, vacuum-sealing meat, using antioxidants, and cooking meat to the proper temperature.