What causes the green shimmer on sliced beef?

Question

I noticed it today in Subway. A green shimmer on the slices of beef. What is it? Fats?Juices? Does is mean the beef is nice and fresh?

Answer 1

IAm not really sure. I have seen it many times. I dont think it will bother you etc

Answer 2

I've noticed it in bacon, corned beef and other meats you buy at the supermarket. I've wondered what it is too...

Answer 3

I've also noticed this from time to time. That sort of glittery green spot on cooked beef. I've also noticed a dark purple glittery spot on sliced ham.

I don't know what it is or what it means in terms of being safe to eat or not. But, I eat it anyway.

Don't have an answer but thanks for bringing it up. Here's a star for an interesting question.  

Answer 4

Its called "diffraction grating".

The muscle fiber structure of the meat, when combined

with water droplets, creates a reflection of

light off the water.The fibrous structure of the meat causes separation of

colors much like happens with a prism.

In the meat industry, it is known that the effect is enhanced when

phosphates are used to increase the amount of water held in the meat. A

dry meat surface scatters rather than diffracts or reflects light.