Another warning sign appears when the meat feels slimy or sticky to the touch. This texture can indicate bacterial growth or poor storage conditions.

In some cases, chicken may also contain excessive water. Some sellers inject water into poultry to increase its weight and make it appear larger and fresher. However, this practice reduces both the quality and flavor of the meat.

Excess liquid in packaging may also affect the texture and taste of the chicken once cooked.

For better quality, choose chicken that feels firm and natural rather than overly wet or slippery.

A Veteran Seller’s Advice

Experienced poultry sellers often emphasize that saving a small amount of money is not worth risking your health. Many say they would never eat these questionable types of chicken themselves and recommend customers avoid them entirely.

When buying chicken, remember to check three basic things:

• Color

• Smell

• Texture

These simple checks can help you identify whether the meat is fresh or potentially unsafe.

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The Bottom Line

Chicken may be an affordable and healthy source of protein, but quality matters. Meat that looks strange, smells unpleasant, or feels slimy may pose health risks and should be avoided.

Spending a little more on fresh, properly stored chicken is often the safest choice for you and your family.