Pink, Soggy, Or Slimy Lettuce — Is It Safe To Eat?

The fragile nature of leafy greens makes them sensitive to being jostled or crushed during picking, packaging or transport, Craig said. As a result, the greens might look wilted, dark green or soggy, but they’re not necessarily unsafe. 

However, dark or wet leaves can signal spoilage, Sabatini said. As greens age, they release moisture, which causes them to darken or get soggy. Overpacking, temperature changes during transport, and improper storage can also increase moisture.

Harmful bacteria, like E. coli, salmonella or listeria, can start to grow in all this extra moisture, which may increase the likelihood of making you sick, Craig said. Foodborne illness can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting and fever, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Since they’re unappetizing anyway, Sabatini recommended that you toss out any limp, soggy, slimy, smelly or unusually dark greens as a precaution.

What to look for when buying packaged greens.

Before buying salad greens, give the package a once-over. Avoid purchasing a product if you notice: 

• Many slimy, dark or soggy leaves in the package, which can signal that the produce is past its prime and might pose a risk.
• Liquid pooling in the corners of the package. A bit of moisture is fine, Craig noted, as long as it’s clear and only a few drops of it.
• Mold or black spots growing on any leaves.

Always check the best-by and sell-by dates, too, Sabatini urged. Best-by dates can tell you how long the greens should stay fresh, not necessarily how long they’re safe to eat. Sell-by dates tell retailers how long to display a product, but you can use it as a guide to buy the freshest pack on the shelf.

Usually, if the greens still look good past the dates on the package, they’re likely safe to eat, Craig said. 

How to safely store and eat greens at home.