Gastroenterologist warned about the risks of ready-made barbecue

Ready-made pickled shish kebab may not always be considered a completely safe product. Ekaterina Kashukh, a gastroenterologist and expert at the Hemotest Laboratory, told Izvestia about this on April 29.

The specialist explained that the marinade can perform not only a taste, but also a masking function, hiding the signs of stale meat.

"Acids (vinegar, lemon juice), large amounts of salt, spices and flavorings are able to hide the initial signs of stale meat — an unpleasant odor, a change in structure and color. As a result, the product may look and smell acceptable, despite the spoilage process that has begun," Kashukh warned.

According to her, an additional risk is associated with microbiological factors. Sliced meat has a large contact area with the external environment, and the marinade does not destroy all microorganisms. If the storage conditions are violated, the bacteria can actively multiply, which increases the risk of food infections, especially with insufficient heat treatment.

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The expert added that sometimes meat is defrosted and re-processed before marinating, which can worsen its quality. Kashukh noted that when choosing a ready-made barbecue, it is important to pay attention to the packaging, composition and appearance of the product.

"You also need to evaluate the marinade — it should be transparent, without pronounced turbidity and foam," she added.

According to the doctor, the pieces of meat should be the same in size and density, without excessive softness or looseness. Preference should be given to products with a simple composition without a lot of additives and flavor enhancers.

On April 22, Kashukh said that excessive consumption of red meat kebabs can negatively affect the functioning of the heart, blood vessels and digestive system. According to the expert, red meat is a source of protein, iron and B vitamins, however, overeating creates an increased burden on the body. In particular, excess fatty meat can increase cholesterol levels and negatively affect the cardiovascular system.