Summer sausage is a delicious and versatile snack that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy appetizer or a tasty addition to your sandwich, Hillshire Farms Summer sausage is a popular choice.
But how long does it last? Can you stock up on this delicious snack and enjoy it for weeks or even months to come?
In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of Hillshire Farms Summer sausage and provide tips on how to store it properly to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn everything you need to know about this tasty treat!
How Long Does Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage Last?
According to Hillshire Farms, their Summer sausage has a shelf life of up to two months when stored at room temperature. This means that you can enjoy the flavor of summer all year long!
However, it’s important to note that the shelf life of summer sausage can vary depending on how it’s stored. For example, if you keep the sausage in the pantry, it should last for 3-6 months unopened. If it’s unopened and stored in the refrigerator, it can last for up to 6 months.
If you know you won’t be consuming the sausage within this time frame, consider storing it in the freezer. When frozen, summer sausage can last for up to 10 months. However, once it’s thawed, it should be consumed immediately and not refrozen.
It’s also important to pay attention to the “best by” date on the package. While this date is not a safety date, it’s an estimate of how long the sausage will remain at peak quality. If the sausage has passed its “best by” date or shows signs of spoilage such as an off odor or mold, it should be discarded.
The Shelf Life Of Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage
Hillshire Farms Summer sausage can last for up to two months when stored at room temperature. However, its shelf life can vary depending on how it’s stored. If unopened and stored in the pantry, it can last for 3-6 months, while if stored in the refrigerator, it can last for up to 6 months. If you plan on storing the sausage for longer than this time frame, consider freezing it. When frozen, Hillshire Farms Summer sausage can last for up to 10 months. However, once thawed, it should be consumed immediately and not refrozen.
It’s also important to note that the “best by” date on the package is not a safety date but an estimate of how long the sausage will remain at peak quality. If the sausage has passed its “best by” date or shows signs of spoilage such as an off odor or mold, it should be discarded. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Hillshire Farms Summer sausage stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
How To Store Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage
To ensure that your Hillshire Farms Summer sausage stays fresh for as long as possible, it’s important to store it properly. Until it is opened, summer sausage should be kept in a cool, dark location. It’s recommended to store unopened summer sausage in the pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Once you’ve opened the package, it’s best to keep the sausage chilled in the refrigerator. Before placing it in the refrigerator, wrap it in parchment paper or vacuum seal it if you won’t be eating it right away. This will help prevent the sausage from drying out and losing its texture.
While summer sausage doesn’t necessarily need to be refrigerated, it’s best to err on the side of caution and keep it chilled. The fat in summer sausage can deteriorate in hot weather, causing it to taste rotten and disgusting. Especially in hotter climates, it’s important to keep the summer sausage in the refrigerator to be safe.
If you know that you won’t be consuming the summer sausage within a few days, consider freezing it. To freeze summer sausage, wrap it tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer wrap or place it inside a heavy-duty freezer bag. When properly stored in the freezer, unopened summer sausage can last for up to 10 months.
When thawing frozen summer sausage, do not refreeze it. Once thawed, the sausage should be consumed immediately. If you have any doubts about the safety or quality of your summer sausage, it’s best to discard it and purchase a new package.
Signs Of Spoilage In Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage
While Hillshire Farms Summer sausage has a relatively long shelf life, it’s important to be aware of signs of spoilage to ensure that you’re consuming safe and high-quality meat.
One of the most noticeable signs of spoilage is an off odor. If the sausage smells rancid or sour, it’s likely past its prime and should be discarded. Similarly, if there are any visible signs of mold on the sausage, it should not be consumed.
Another indicator of spoilage is a change in texture or appearance. If the sausage appears slimy or has a tacky texture, it may have gone bad. Additionally, if the color of the sausage has changed significantly or appears discolored, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
If you’re unsure whether your Hillshire Farms Summer sausage is still good to eat, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Discard any sausage that shows signs of spoilage or has passed its “best by” date to avoid potential health risks.
Creative Ways To Enjoy Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage
Summer sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some creative ways to enjoy Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage:
1. Pasta salad: Add diced summer sausage to your favorite pasta salad recipe for a delicious and hearty addition.
2. Skewers: Create fun and tasty skewers by alternating pineapple, water chestnuts, and sliced summer sausage. Brush with teriyaki sauce and broil for a few minutes.
3. Red beans and rice: Add chopped summer sausage to your red beans and rice dish for added flavor.
4. Hash: Fry onions and potatoes and add finely chopped summer sausage for a delicious breakfast hash.
5. Sausage stew: Combine chunked sausage, potatoes, baby carrots, onion, and celery in a crockpot with water and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Thicken with flour to your liking.
6. Appetizers: Cut the summer sausage into 1/4 inch slices and cook with your favorite barbecue sauce for 30 minutes. Serve as appetizers.
7. Soups: Add sliced summer sausage to your favorite soup recipe for added flavor and protein.
With these creative ways to enjoy Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage, you can make the most of this delicious ingredient and enjoy it in a variety of dishes.
