Customers are noticing strange textures, smells, and inconsistent quality in packaged meats—and it turns out there’s a reason. Investigators found that some distributors were quietly mixing lower-grade imported meat with premium cuts to save costs. Labels claimed high quality, prices matched, but the meat often came from poorly regulated facilities abroad.

While the meat wasn’t unsafe, shoppers felt deceived, paying top-dollar for products that didn’t match the claims. Supermarkets pointed to their suppliers and promised to review supply chains.

The scandal raises a bigger question: how much do we really know about the food we buy? Experts advise reading labels carefully, sticking with trusted brands, and staying alert to recalls. Transparency, they say, is key to keeping customers informed—and confident.