At least 65 kg of stale meat has been recovered from 11 restaurants in Tamil Nadu’s Veerdhungar district. Also, 3 kg plastic has been collected from these restaurants, which is banned in the state. The authorities have imposed a fine of Rs 30,000 on these eateries.
Authorities will continue inspections at other restaurants. District Collector, VP Jayaselan has released a helpline number for people to complain about adulterated or unhealthy food at District Food Safety Department office number 04562 252255 or WhatsApp number 9444042322.
Harmful effects of eating rotten meat
Eating stale meat can be dangerous and can lead to various health problems due to the growth of harmful bacteria and the production of toxins. Some of the possible side effects and risks of consuming stale meat include:
Foodborne Disease:
Stale meat is more likely to be contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Campylobacter, which can cause food poisoning. Symptoms of foodborne illness include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and muscle aches.
Stomach discomfort:
Eating rancid meat can cause gastrointestinal upset, including bloating, gas, and abdominal pain.
Food poisoning: Eating spoiled meat can result in food poisoning, which can range from mild to severe. In severe cases, medical attention may be required and dehydration and other complications may occur.
Odor and Taste:
Rancid meat often has an unpleasant odor and taste due to the growth of spoilage bacteria, making it unappetizing.
Digestive problems:
Rancid meat can be difficult to digest, possibly leading to indigestion or an upset stomach.
Risk of foodborne pathogens:
Rancid meat is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, including those that cause diseases like botulism. Eating meat contaminated with these pathogens can be fatal.
To reduce the risk of eating stale or spoiled meat, follow these food safety guidelines:
Store meat at the proper temperature: Refrigerate raw meat below 40°F (4°C) and use within a few days or freeze for longer storage.
Check for signs of malfunction:
Before cooking or using meat, inspect for unusual odors, thinness, color, or texture. If any of these symptoms are present, discard the meat.
Use meat immediately or freeze:
Eat meat before it expires and follow recommended storage times. If you can’t use it in time, freeze it for later use.
Handle meat safely:
Practice good food hygiene, such as washing your hands and kitchen utensils thoroughly after handling raw meat, to avoid contamination.
Cook the meat well:
Cook meat properly to the recommended internal temperature to kill any harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer to make sure it reaches the correct temperature.
Eating stale meat can cause a variety of health risks, including food-borne illnesses and digestive upset. Adequate food safety measures must be followed to prevent the consumption of spoiled or contaminated meat. If you suspect you have eaten contaminated meat and experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
First Published: 24 Sep 2023, 18:15 IST