What characteristic may signify that poultry is spoiled?

A characteristic that may signify that poultry is spoiled is dark wing tips. Fresh poultry typically has a light color, and the tips of the wings should not appear dark. When poultry begins to spoil, it can develop discoloration, including darker areas, which can indicate the presence of bacteria or other spoilage factors.

In contrast, bright red color in the joints may be normal depending on the age of the poultry and does not necessarily indicate spoilage. A neutral smell is also a sign of freshness, as spoiled poultry often emits an off or sour odor. Dry skin can occur for various reasons, including dehydration or prolonged storage, but does not reliably indicate spoilage on its own. Therefore, the presence of dark wing tips is a more accurate sign of spoilage in poultry.