Smells sour, fishy, ammonia-like, or otherwise unpleasant
Slimy or tacky surface texture instead of moist and clean
Dull, opaque appearance instead of bright, fresh color
Brown, gray, or yellow discoloration (especially around edges)
Dry, hard, or excessively dehydrated areas
Mushy or falling-apart texture when pressed with a finger
Visible mold or unusual specks
Packaging liquid is unusually cloudy, thick, or has strong odor
Taste is off (bitter, sour, or “chemical”); discard immediately
Exceeds the recommended “use by” or “sell by” date
Has been stored above 40°F / 4°C for too long (especially more than 2 hours)
Freezer-burned patches with significant dryness (may be safe but often unpleasant)