One of the simplest ways to check if meat has gone bad is to use your nose - yes, you read that right, your nose! If it smells off or funny, it's probably best to err on the side of caution and toss it. After all, it's always better to be safe than sorry, right?
But, let's get more specific, shall we? For instance, if you're checking raw meat, it should have a fresh, meaty smell, whereas cooked meat should have a savory, slightly sweet aroma. And, if it's past its prime, you might notice a slimy texture or a grayish color - yuck!