If meat doesn't taste right

If the meat is fresh and cooked properly, but it just doesn't taste right, serve other foods that contain protein, such as:

• Beans or peas in soups, salads or side dishes or as a dip or spread
• Cheese
• Cottage cheese
• Custard
• Egg dishes
• Eggnog
• Fish — fresh, frozen or packed in a vacuum-sealed pouch, as canned fish can have a metallic taste
• Instant breakfast-type drinks or other nutritional beverages
• Lentils
• Macaroni and cheese
• Malts
• Milkshakes
• Nuts
• Peanut butter
• Poultry
• Pudding
• Quinoa
• Tofu or tempeh
• Yogurt

Other suggestions for meat:

• Try meat prepared in combination with other foods, such as chili, lasagna, spaghetti sauce, casseroles, stews or hearty soups.
• Try sauces, ketchup and other seasonings, which may improve the flavor.
• Try marinating meat, chicken or fish in marinades, soy sauce, sweet fruit juices, wine or Italian-style dressings.
• Try salty, spicy or smoked meats, such as seasoned beef steaks, pork loins, ham, sausage or cold cuts.
• Try high-protein foods that may taste better cold or at room temperature. Examples include cheese or cottage cheese plates; macaroni salads with shrimp, ham or cheese; tuna, egg, ham or chicken salad; cold meat or luncheon meat sandwiches; or cold salmon.

If your cancer treatment has weakened your immune system, some of these foods may not be safe for you. Practice food safety by keeping foods at safe temperatures. Don't let perishable foods sit out for more than an hour. Avoid unpasteurized juice, cheese or milk, and raw or undercooked meats.