Why does sliced roast beef sometimes look green/holographic?

Answer 1

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.

Answer 2

Sliced cooked beef or lunch meat can have an iridescent color. Meat contains iron, fat, and many other compounds. When light hits a slice of meat, it splits into colors like a rainbow. There are also various pigments in meat compounds which can give it an iridescent or greenish cast when exposed to heat and processing. Iridescent beef isn't spoiled necessarily. Spoiled cooked beef would probably also be slimy or sticky and have an off-odor.

Answer 3

I agree 100% w/ Rasta! If meat is bad, it will be slimy and have an off odor. I don't know the whole scientific meaning by the color and holographic look, but it does have something to do with light.

Answer 4

I don't know, but I'm glad you asked this question! I sure hope someone answers it, because I've always wondered the same thing.

Answer 5

Dunno...but it always gives me the "big iggs"...like it's nasty or something. So I pull that part out and throw it away. Just me.

Answer 6

Cuz it's gone bad - so after you're done admiring it - THROW IT AWAY!!!

Answer 7

dude easy on the weed

Answer 8

hav no idea