What Those White Bits in Spam Actually Are

damage along the seams of the metal container
A sour, rancid, or otherwise “off” smell after opening the lid
Slimy texture or unusual discoloration (gray, green, or black patches) on the meat
Can safety depends entirely on maintaining an intact seal. Once that seal fails, bacteria can enter and multiply. When in doubt, throw it out—but if the can is intact, the smell is normal, and the only unusual feature is white fat specks, your Spam is safe to eat.

A practical rule: When evaluating packaged foods, the condition of