Does Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage Need to Be Refrigerated?

Summer sausage is a tasty cured meat that adds flavorful punch to sandwiches, pizzas appetizers and more. The tangy, smoky flavor makes it a go-to topping for many. But when it comes to storage it can be confusing – does summer sausage need refrigeration or not?

In this article we’ll explore whether Hillshire Farms summer sausage specifically needs refrigeration after opening and provide tips for enjoying this versatile meat safely.

What is Summer Sausage?

Summer sausage is a fermented, cured sausage that originated as a way to preserve meat for long periods without refrigeration It’s made from a mixture of pork and beef, and seasoned boldly with black peppercorns, mustard seeds, garlic and other spices

The curing process gives summer sausage its signature tang, and allows it to be kept at room temperature when unopened. The low pH and low moisture content make it difficult for dangerous bacteria to grow. Traditionally, this sausage could be hung in a cool, dry spot for weeks or months.

In the past, summer sausage didn’t need to be kept cold, but because of changes in how it’s made today, you should be extra careful when storing it.

Does Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage Require Refrigeration?

According to manufacturer recommendations, yes – Hillshire Farms summer sausage should be refrigerated after opening.

On their website, Hillshire Farms states that their summer sausage products should be kept refrigerated once opened. This prevents the high fat content in the sausage from turning rancid after exposure to warmer temperatures.

So although summer sausage gained its name from being a handy meat to have on hand during the summertime, today’s versions like Hillshire Farms are best stored in the fridge after the package is opened.

Why Refrigeration is Recommended

There are a few reasons why it’s recommended to refrigerate summer sausage after opening, even if it’s traditionally been shelf-stable:

• Fat rancidity – Summer sausage contains a high amount of fat. When exposed to warmer temperatures, the fat can start to oxidize and turn rancid more quickly. This causes an unpleasant taste.

• Foodborne illness: Meats that haven’t been refrigerated are more likely to have harmful bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria on them. Refrigerating after opening minimizes this risk.

• Quality and shelf life – Just like any perishable food, refrigeration helps slow the growth of spoilage microorganisms. This extends the shelf life of the summer sausage after opening.

So while an unopened summer sausage can withstand room temperature storage for a period of time, refrigeration is the safest bet after exposure to air.

How is Modern Summer Sausage Made?

While traditional summer sausage recipes used only salt, spices and fermentation to preserve the meat, most commercial versions today use additional ingredients and processes that affect refrigeration recommendations.

Here are some of the main differences in modern summer sausage production:

• Curing salts – In addition to regular table salt, most companies use sodium nitrite or nitrate curing salts to stabilize color and add characteristic flavor.

• Fast fermentation – Instead of a slow, natural fermentation, a fast-acting bacterial culture is added to quickly drop the pH. This saves time.

• Smoking – Many types of summer sausage are smoked after fermenting and cooking to add flavor. Cold smoking does not cook the sausage.

• Final heating – The sausages are heated to an internal temperature of 152°F after fermenting to pasteurize and fully cook the meat.

• Fast drying – Commercial sausage may be dried quickly at a warmer temperature instead of traditional slow, cool drying.

These shortcuts can create a product that doesn’t keep as long at room temperature as traditionally-made summer sausage. Refrigerating after opening prevents any food safety or quality issues.

How Long Does Summer Sausage Last Without Refrigeration?

If absolutely necessary, an unopened summer sausage can be kept without refrigeration for:

• 1 week past the sell-by date at temperatures below 75°F
• 2-3 weeks past the sell-by date at temperatures below 40°F

However, for best quality, unopened summer sausage should still be refrigerated, especially once past the sell-by date.

After opening, summer sausage like Hillshire Farms should be consumed within 5-7 days if left unrefrigerated. It’s always better to err on the side of caution if the temperatures are warmer. Discard if you notice any off-colors, sour smells or slime.

For maximum shelf life and safety, refrigerate or freeze summer sausage after opening.

Tips for Safely Storing Summer Sausage

Follow these tips for safely storing summer sausage once purchased:

• Check the sell-by date – Don’t purchase summer sausage that has passed its sell-by date. This indicates when peak freshness and quality is achieved.

• Refrigerate after purchase – For longest shelf life, refrigerate summer sausage as soon as you get home from the store.

• Wrap tightly – Make sure opened packages are tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out. Air exposure speeds spoilage.

• Use within 5-7 days – Consume refrigerated summer sausage within 5-7 days after opening for best quality and food safety.

• Freeze for longer storage – Freeze summer sausage in freezer bags if you won’t finish it within 5-7 days. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

• Look for signs of spoilage – Discard if you see mold, sliminess or discoloration. Don’t taste meat that smells rancid or “off.”

Following the refrigerator recommendations after opening will keep Hillshire Farms and other summer sausages fresher longer.

Serving and Cooking Tips

Summer sausage makes an easy, protein packed addition to meals and snacks. Here are some serving ideas:

• Slice thinly and enjoy on a sandwich or cheese board
• Roll up with cream cheese and pickle in a keto “sushi” roll
• Dice and add to omelets, breakfast tacos or pizza
• Grill or pan-fry slices for an appetizer
• Add to casseroles, soups, pasta dishes or salads
• Skewer cubes onto kabobs for grilling
• Pair with cheese, crackers, olives, nuts and wine

Try using Hillshire Farm’s Beef Summer Sausage – it’s smoked with natural hardwoods for intense flavor. Just be sure to refrigerate after opening.

The Takeaway on Refrigerating Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage

While summer sausage was created as a cured meat that could stand up to room temperature storage, nowadays refrigeration provides an extra layer of safety and freshness.

Hillshire Farms summer sausages, like their Beef Summer Sausage, should always be refrigerated after opening. This prevents premature spoilage and potential foodborne illness.

For best quality, use opened summer sausage within 5-7 days and discard if it develops