Country ham is a beloved tradition in many Southern households. This cured, smoked pork is incredibly versatile – it can be enjoyed in biscuits, alongside fried eggs, on pizzas, in sandwiches, and more While an uncut country ham will keep at room temperature for extended time, once sliced, proper storage is key to maintain the quality and flavor So how long does sliced country ham last in the fridge?
Refrigeration is the best way to preserve sliced country ham and prevent spoilage. With proper storage methods, the shelf life of country ham slices can be extended in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. For even longer storage, freezing is recommended.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about storing sliced country ham in the fridge to maintain freshness.
How to Store Sliced Country Ham in the Fridge
To maximize the shelf life of sliced country ham. follow these tips
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Slice ham as needed instead of slicing the whole ham at once. Only slice what will be eaten within 5-7 days.
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Separate slices with sheets of parchment paper or wax paper before storing. This prevents sticking.
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Place the stacked slices in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Press out excess air before sealing.
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Store in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally at 40°F or below.
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Use sliced ham within 5-7 days for best quality. Use within 14 days at maximum for safety.
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If ham develops an off odor, flavor or slimy texture, it has spoiled and should be discarded.
Properly stored in the refrigerator, sliced country ham will maintain its signature salty, smoky flavor for up to 2 weeks.
Does Cooked Country Ham Last Longer Than Uncooked?
Cooked country ham that is ready to eat will generally last a bit longer than uncooked cured ham in the refrigerator.
For cooked ham slices, maximum fridge times are:
- 7 days tightly wrapped
For fresh uncured ham slices, maximum times are:
- 3-5 days tightly wrapped
The curing process of country ham acts as a preservative, allowing it to keep longer than uncured pork. Fully cooked ham also has less risk of bacteria since it has reached safe eating temperatures.
Can You Freeze Sliced Country Ham?
Freezing is an excellent way to extend the shelf life of sliced country ham. Properly frozen, sliced country ham will maintain quality for 1-2 months.
To freeze sliced country ham:
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Freeze ham within 1-2 days of purchasing or slicing.
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Separate slices with parchment or wax paper.
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Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Remove air.
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Place wrapped slices in freezer bags or airtight containers.
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Label with date and contents.
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Freeze at 0°F or below.
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Once thawed, use thawed ham slices within 3-5 days.
The salty, dry cure of country ham makes it perfect for freezing. Well-wrapped slices frozen at 0°F or below will retain their texture and signature flavor for months.
Thawing Frozen Country Ham Safely
Always thaw frozen country ham in the refrigerator overnight when ready to use. Do not leave ham slices at room temperature to thaw, as bacteria could grow rapidly on the outside before the interior thaws.
To thaw country ham safely:
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Place wrapped ham in refrigerator 24-48 hours before needed.
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Change wrapping if condensation accumulates as it thaws.
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Use thawed ham immediately within 3-5 days.
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For quick thawing, place vacuum sealed ham under cold running water 30-60 minutes.
Once thawed, enjoy country ham slices in all your favorite recipes from salads to sandwiches to breakfast platters and more!
Signs of Spoilage in Country Ham
Discard sliced country ham if it shows these signs of spoilage:
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Mold growth
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Slimy or sticky texture
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Unpleasant sour or ammonia odors
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Dark or dull grey coloring
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Dry, crusty patches on meat
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Rancid taste and smell when cooked
When stored properly in the refrigerator or freezer, sliced country ham will stay fresh for 1-2 weeks refrigerated or 1-2 months frozen. With the proper storage and handling, you can enjoy the signature salty, tangy flavor of country ham for many delicious meals.
How do I store my Sliced Country Ham?
Sliced Country ham can go without refrigeration for up to two weeks. We recommend you refrigerate it upon arrival. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to a year without breaking the vacuum seals. Once the seal has been broken we recommend repackaging it and freezing it. You can also freeze the ham if you prefer.
Why do country hams have to be cooked if they have been smoked?
We do use smoke during our curing process. The smoke is used only to help dry the hams and add flavor. They are not smoked in a smoker so they are not cooked, only cured. Please see our recipe page for proper cooking instructions.
How long can you keep a Smithfield ham in the refrigerator?
FAQ
Can ham last 2 weeks in the fridge?
Is ham still good after 7 days?
How to store sliced country ham?
How long does processed sliced ham last in the fridge?
How long can you keep a sliced ham in the fridge?
Avoid storing it in the fridge door as the temperature fluctuates more frequently, leading to quicker deterioration of the ham. Lastly, consume the sliced ham within 3 to 5 days of opening the packaging to enjoy it at its best quality. If there are any leftovers, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe container or bag for longer-term storage.
How long does a country ham last?
The length of time that country ham lasts depends on how much air is in the package and how tightly you seal it. A good rule of thumb is to keep it refrigerated for no more than 3 weeks. A whole, uncut dry cured or country ham can be stored safely at room temperature for up to 1 year. After 1 year, the ham is safe but the quality may suffer.
How do you store sliced country ham?
Once you’ve sliced up your delicious country ham, you’ll need to make sure it stays fresh until you’re ready to enjoy more! The best way to store sliced country ham is in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freezer. By keeping air away from your meat, you prevent oxidation which can cause spoilage over time.
How long does a cured ham last in the fridge?
Whole cured hams last in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, fresh ham only lasts a few days in the refrigerator, about three or four once you’ve cooked it. It doesn’t matter if the ham is whole or sliced; the lack of preservatives allows it to spoil more quickly.