I have done the connections and working with flash and i don't remember checking the IC before erasing.
I just want to know whether the flash memory IC is erased when bought from the manufacturer ?
I wouldn´t expect it to be erased. But maybe it is.
Since it is not mentioned in the datasheet... you can never be sure of it. Even if a lot of forum members post their experience..
So, why don´t you just read the contents....
Or perform a bulk erase to be sure?
It won´t take much more time than your posting here...but it gives reliable results.