Are you a fan of Hillshire Farm ham?
Whether you enjoy it in sandwiches, salads, or as a snack, it’s important to know how long it will last in your fridge or freezer.
In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of Hillshire Farm ham and provide tips on how to store it properly to ensure maximum freshness.
From refrigeration to freezing, we’ll cover all the bases so you can enjoy your favorite lunch meat without worrying about spoilage.
So, let’s dive in and learn more about how long Hillshire Farm ham lasts!
How Long Does Hillshire Farm Ham Last?
Hillshire Farm ham is a popular choice for many people when it comes to lunch meat. But how long can you expect it to last?
According to the Hillshire Farm team, the expiration date on their packaging is determined by rigorous shelf-life testing. So, it’s always a good idea to check the date before consuming the ham.
Once you open the package of Hillshire Farm ham, it can be refrigerated for up to five days. However, if you want to extend its shelf life, freezing is an option worth considering.
When freezing Hillshire Farm ham, it’s important to do so before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed. This will help ensure that the ham maintains its quality and freshness.
To maximize the shelf life of Hillshire Farm ham in the freezer, overwrap the original store packaging with airtight heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper. Alternatively, you can place the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Properly stored Hillshire Farm ham will maintain its best quality for one to two months in the freezer. However, it will remain safe beyond that time.
The Shelf Life Of Hillshire Farm Ham
If you store Hillshire Farm ham refrigerated at 28°F, it has a shelf life of 90 days. However, once the package is opened, it should be consumed within five days. If you plan on using the ham beyond that time frame, freezing is your best bet.
It’s important to note that the freezer time shown is for best quality only. While Hillshire Farm ham that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will remain safe indefinitely, its quality may deteriorate over time.
To determine if Hillshire Farm ham has gone bad or spoiled, you should smell and look at the meat. If it has a slimy surface, off smell or appearance, it should be discarded immediately. Do not taste it first.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Hillshire Farm ham stays fresh and safe to eat for as long as possible.
How To Store Hillshire Farm Ham In The Fridge
Storing Hillshire Farm ham in the fridge is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow some guidelines to ensure its freshness and quality.
Firstly, make sure to keep the package of Hillshire Farm ham refrigerated at all times. The ideal temperature for storing this type of lunch meat is between 28°F and 40°F.
When storing Hillshire Farm ham in the fridge, it’s best to keep it in its original packaging. This package is double-sealed for absolute freshness, and it’s designed to keep the ham safe from contamination.
Before using the ham, be sure to wash the container thoroughly. This will help remove any bacteria or contaminants that may have accumulated during storage or transportation.
Once you’ve opened the package of Hillshire Farm ham, it’s important to use it within five days. This timeframe is recommended to ensure that the ham remains fresh and safe for consumption.
If you want to extend the shelf life of Hillshire Farm ham beyond five days, freezing is a viable option. However, make sure you freeze it before the five-day period is over.
Freezing Hillshire Farm Ham: What You Need To Know
If you’re planning to freeze Hillshire Farm ham, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
Firstly, make sure that the ham is still fresh and hasn’t exceeded its recommended refrigerator storage time. This will ensure that it maintains its quality and flavor when frozen.
Secondly, it’s important to wrap the ham properly before freezing it. Overwrap the original store packaging with airtight heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper. Alternatively, you can place the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Make sure that there are no air pockets in the packaging, as this can cause ice crystals to form and affect the texture of the ham.
When it comes to thawing frozen Hillshire Farm ham, it’s best to do so in the refrigerator overnight. This will ensure that the ham thaws evenly and safely. Avoid thawing the ham at room temperature or in warm water, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
Once thawed, Hillshire Farm ham can be enjoyed as is or used in a variety of recipes. Whether you’re making a sandwich or adding it to a salad or pasta dish, Hillshire Farm ham is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can elevate any meal.
Tips For Keeping Your Hillshire Farm Ham Fresh
Here are some tips to help keep your Hillshire Farm ham fresh:
1. Check the expiration date: Always check the expiration date on the packaging before consuming Hillshire Farm ham. If it has expired, it’s best to discard it.
2. Refrigerate promptly: Once you open the package of Hillshire Farm ham, make sure to refrigerate it promptly. It can be refrigerated for up to five days.
3. Freeze for longer storage: If you want to extend the shelf life of your Hillshire Farm ham, freezing is an option worth considering. Make sure to freeze it before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed.
4. Properly wrap for freezing: When freezing Hillshire Farm ham, overwrap the original store packaging with airtight heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper. Alternatively, you can place the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
5. Label and date: Make sure to label and date your frozen Hillshire Farm ham packages so that you know when they were frozen. This will help you keep track of their shelf life in the freezer.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Hillshire Farm ham stays fresh and safe to consume for as long as possible.
Signs Of Spoiled Ham And When To Discard It
While Hillshire Farm ham can last for a while if stored properly, it’s important to know the signs of spoiled ham and when to discard it.
Firstly, if the ham smells off or has a sour smell, it’s a clear indication that it has gone bad. Additionally, if the ham develops discoloration or begins to feel sweaty or slimy, it’s time to discard it.
It’s important to note that bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F. So, if you’ve left your ham out for more than two hours at room temperature, it’s best to discard it.
If you’re unsure about the freshness of your Hillshire Farm ham, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and discard it. Consuming spoiled ham can lead to food poisoning and other health issues.
