Pulled my beef roast out of the slow cooker and saw these weird white stringy things poking out of the meat. They look like little worms or parasites. Is the meat infested?

Strings

Certain cuts of beef are more prone to displaying these white strings due to their higher content of connective tissue. Cuts such as chuck roast, brisket, and round roast are common examples. These cuts benefit from slow cooking methods because the extended cooking time allows the connective tissue to break down and soften.

These cuts are often more affordable and flavorful, making them popular choices for slow cooking recipes. However, the presence of these white strings is a typical characteristic of these cuts and should not be a cause