Are you a fan of Bob Evans Italian Sausage?
If so, you may want to double-check the expiration date on the package in your fridge.
The United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety Inspection Service recently announced a recall of approximately 7,560 pounds of the popular pork sausage due to potential contamination with thin pieces of blue rubber.
But even if your sausage isn’t affected by the recall, you may be wondering how long it’s safe to keep in your fridge or freezer.
In this article, we’ll explore the shelf life of Bob Evans sausage and provide tips for ensuring that it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
How Long Is Bob Evans Sausage Good For?
According to Bob Evans, their Italian Sausage should be consumed or frozen by the “USE/FRZ BY” date on the package. This date is typically about a year from the date of purchase.
However, it’s important to note that this date is only a guideline for quality, not safety. The sausage may still be safe to eat after this date, but the quality and flavor may have deteriorated.
To ensure that your Bob Evans sausage stays fresh for as long as possible, it’s important to store it properly. If you plan on using it within a few days, store it in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below.
If you won’t be using it for a while, you can freeze it. Before freezing, make sure to wrap the sausage tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s also a good idea to label the package with the date so you know how long it’s been frozen.
The Recall: What You Need To Know
Recently, Bob Evans Farms Inc. has issued a recall for approximately 7,560 pounds of their Italian pork sausage products due to possible contamination with thin blue rubber. The affected products were produced on September 8, 2022, and have a “USE/FRZ BY” date of November 26, 2022, and a time stamp between 14:43 and 15:25. The products were shipped to retail locations nationwide and have the establishment number “EST. 6785” inside the USDA mark of inspection.
Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them and either throw them away or return them to the place of purchase. The recall was initiated after Bob Evans Farms received customer complaints about finding rubber in the sausage. There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products.
If you have any recalled sausage in your fridge or freezer, it’s important to dispose of it immediately or return it to the place of purchase. It’s also important to note that this recall only affects the specific lot code and use-by date listed above. Bob Evans Farms’ other sausage products are not affected by this recall.
Understanding Expiration Dates On Bob Evans Sausage
Expiration dates on Bob Evans sausage are printed on the package as “USE/FRZ BY” dates. These dates indicate the recommended last date for peak quality and freshness, but not necessarily safety. It is important to note that the “USE/FRZ BY” date refers to the shelf life of the sausage, not how long it takes to spoil.
If stored properly, Bob Evans sausage can be good for up to a year from the date of purchase. However, it is recommended to consume or freeze the sausage by the “USE/FRZ BY” date for optimal quality and flavor.
To prevent food waste and ensure safety, it is important to follow proper storage guidelines. Unopened sausage packages should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Once opened, the sausage should be refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F or below and consumed within three to four days.
If you plan on storing the sausage for longer periods of time, it is recommended to freeze it. Before freezing, make sure to wrap the sausage tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It is also important to label the package with the date so you know how long it has been frozen.
Signs Your Sausage Has Gone Bad
It’s important to know the signs that your Bob Evans sausage has gone bad to avoid potential food poisoning. One of the most obvious signs is a strong and unpleasant odor. If your sausage smells sour, fishy, or like ammonia, it’s time to toss it out.
Discoloration or changes in texture are also signs that your sausage has gone bad. If your sausage has started to change color to greyish or has developed a slimy or sticky texture, it’s time to throw it out. Mold and mildew are also signs that your sausage has gone bad. If you see any mold on the surface of your sausage, it’s best to throw it out.
If you see white or black spots on your sausage, it’s also a sign that it’s time to get rid of it. If your sausage has a slimy texture, it’s most likely gone bad. This is usually coupled with a loss of color and firmness. If you see these signs, it’s best to toss the sausage and get a new one.
It’s important to follow proper storage guidelines for Bob Evans sausage to prevent spoilage. Always store it in the refrigerator at 40°F or below if you plan on using it within a few days. If you won’t be using it for a while, freeze it and label the package with the date so you know how long it’s been frozen.
Tips For Using Up Leftover Bob Evans Sausage
If you have leftover Bob Evans sausage that you want to use up, there are plenty of delicious ways to incorporate it into your meals. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your leftovers:
1. Breakfast Burritos: Use the leftover sausage to make breakfast burritos by adding scrambled eggs, cheese, and any other desired toppings. Wrap them up in tortillas and freeze for a quick and easy breakfast on-the-go.
2. Sausage Gravy: Use the leftover sausage to make a delicious sausage gravy by following one of the recipes above. Serve it over biscuits for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
3. Pizza Topping: Chop up the leftover sausage and use it as a pizza topping along with your favorite vegetables and cheeses.
4. Pasta Sauce: Use the leftover sausage to make a flavorful pasta sauce by combining it with canned tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a quick and easy dinner.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Use the leftover sausage to stuff bell peppers along with rice, cheese, and other vegetables for a delicious and filling meal.
By following these tips, you can make sure that your leftover Bob Evans sausage doesn’t go to waste and enjoy delicious meals at the same time.
