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You open the fridge, pull out a package of deli ham, and something catches your eye. As the light hits the slices just right, you notice a strange shimmer—almost a rainbow sheen across the surface. Blues, greens, maybe even a hint of pink.
Your first thought?
*Is this mold? Is it spoiled? Should I throw it away immediately?*
Take a breath. You’re not alone—and in most cases, what you’re seeing is completely normal.
That rainbow-like shine on deli ham (and other cured or cooked meats) is one of those food phenomena that looks alarming but usually isn’t. In this post, we’ll break down what causes it, when it’s harmless, when it’s not, and how to tell the difference—so you can make a confident, informed decision instead of guessing.
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## The Short Answer: Yes, It’s Usually Normal
In most cases, a rainbow or iridescent sheen on deli ham is **not a sign of spoilage**. It’s a physical effect caused by light interacting with the structure of the meat, especially when it has been sliced thinly.
This effect is called **iridescence**, and it’s surprisingly common in:
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