Why does Lamb meat have such a unique smell? Lamb meat is widely becoming known as the “fourth meat” after beef, pork and chicken. However, lamb meat has a unique smell compared to other meats, and some people may not be fond of it. Actually, the cause of the smell is the grass the sheep eats.

Does raw lamb have an odor?

What is happening is that the fat of the lamb is mixing with the red liquid often thought of as blood, but it's actually a protein found in the muscles of the meat called myoglobin. When the myoglobin is exposed to oxygen, the breakdown occurs, and the meat gets a smelly odor.

How can you tell if lamb is spoiled?

Fresh lamb meat will be firm to the touch, and retain no marks when you remove your fingers (old lamb meat will cave in if you press it). In addition, scrape a portion of the meat with your nails. If you get a slimy film on your nails, then the lamb meat is probably not fresh.