Which of the following conditions would indicate that a delivery of poultry should be rejected?

• A. The poultry is delivered at 4°C and has no unusual odor.
• B. The poultry has a slimy texture and an off odor.
• C. The packaging is intact and the poultry appears firm.
• D. The poultry is labeled with a recent packaging date.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the importance of poultry quality indicators. Fresh poultry should have a firm texture, no off odors, intact packaging, and be stored at appropriate temperatures (usually close to 4°C).
2. Step 2: Identify signs of spoilage in poultry. Common indicators include a slimy texture, off or unusual odors, discoloration, and damaged packaging.
3. Step 3: Analyze each condition given in the problem: poultry at 4°C with no unusual odor is acceptable; intact packaging and firm texture are positive signs; a recent packaging date suggests freshness.
4. Step 4: Recognize that a slimy texture combined with an off odor strongly indicates spoilage and bacterial growth, which compromises safety and quality.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the presence of a slimy texture and off odor is a valid reason to reject the poultry delivery to prevent foodborne illness.