Boar’s Head is one of the most trusted and renowned deli brands, crafting premium meats, cheeses and more for over 115 years. Their turkey breast is a top-seller – thin slices of juicy, flavorful meat perfect for sandwiches and snacking. But how long does this deli delicacy last once you get it home?
As a fellow Boar’s Head turkey lover, I did some deep research into maximizing refrigerator shelf life. Read on for pro tips to keep your lunchtime staple fresh and delicious.
The Short Answer
According to Boar’s Head themselves their premium deli meats like turkey are best when consumed within 3 days for maximum enjoyment. However with proper refrigeration and storage tactics, the turkey can last 5-7 days before quality really declines.
Factors Impacting Freshness
Several key factors determine how long Boar’s Head turkey stays fresh in the fridge:
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Packaging: Pre-sliced, pre-packaged meat has a shorter shelf life than deli-counter sliced. More air exposure speeds spoilage.
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Temperature Consistent fridge temp of 40°F or below is crucial Meat stored in door shelves lasts less time.
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Handling: Always use clean utensils and hands when handling to prevent cross-contamination.
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Freezer Storage: Frozen deli meat stays fresh much longer, up to 2-3 months when frozen properly.
How To Tell If Your Turkey is Spoiled
Watch for these signs that your Boar’s Head turkey has gone bad:
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Slimy Texture: Obvious one here – if it feels sticky or slimy, toss it!
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Discoloration: Fresh turkey is a light pink. Gray, brown or green hues mean it’s spoiled.
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Sour Smell: Turkey gives off a sour, “off” odor when it has gone bad. Trust your nose.
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Mold Growth: Any mold spots mean the turkey isn’t safe. Don’t take risks – when in doubt, throw it out.
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Expired Date: If the sell-by or use-by date has long passed, it’s not worth eating. Stick to the 3 day guideline after opening.
Storing Deli Meat Properly
Proper storage is key to keeping Boar’s Head turkey fresh longer. Here are my top tips:
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Keep cold: Maintain consistent fridge temperature of 40°F or below.
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Avoid fridge door: Meat stored in door shelves is exposed to more temperature fluctuations. Opt for middle shelves.
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Use original packaging: Keep turkey in original plastic or deli paper to minimize air exposure. Re-wrap after opening.
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Watch cross-contamination: Always use clean utensils and plates. Never let raw meat touch other foods.
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Freeze for longer term: Freeze deli meat for 2-3 months maximum. Thaw in fridge before using.
Freezing Deli Meat for Long Term Storage
Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of Boar’s Head turkey. Follow these steps:
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Double wrap turkey slices in plastic wrap or foil. This prevents freezer burn.
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Place wrapped meat in airtight freezer bag or container. Remove as much air as possible.
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Label package with date and contents. Turkey can be frozen 2-3 months maximum.
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Freeze deli meat flat so slices don’t stick together. Makes defrosting easier.
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Defrost turkey in the refrigerator, not at room temp. This maintains quality and safety.
Tips for Enjoying Turkey at Peak Freshness
With the right strategies, you can enjoy Boar’s Head turkey for 5-7 days past the sell-by date. Here are my best tips:
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Buy small: Get thinner deli slices and smaller packages. Avoid large quantities if you won’t eat it quickly.
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Use oldest first: Be sure to eat older turkey slices before newer ones. Don’t let any go to waste.
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Trust your senses: If turkey has an off smell, flavor or bad texture, throw it out. Don’t take risks.
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When in doubt, toss it: If there’s any question about the turkey’s safety or quality, discard it. Don’t chance it.
Answering Common Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Boar’s Head turkey shelf life:
How can I tell if deli turkey is still good?
Watch for sliminess, smell, mold, and odd colors. Trust your senses – if it seems off, pitch it. When unsure, play it safe and discard it.
Does freezing extend shelf life?
Yes, freezing deli meat keeps it fresh for 2-3 months when stored properly at 0°F. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
How long can I store turkey after opening?
Consume opened packages within 3-5 days. Discard any turkey that’s been open for over 7 days, even if refrigerated.
Can I eat deli meat after sell-by date?
It’s not recommended. While turkey may last 5-7 days past sell-by, quality and taste decline over time. Stick to the 3 day guidance for best flavor.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that with proper refrigeration and storage tactics, you can enjoy delicious Boar’s Head turkey for 3-5 days past the sell-by date before the quality really deteriorates. Buy smaller portions, monitor for spoilage, freeze extras, and remember – when in doubt, throw it out!
As a fellow deli turkey lover, I hope these tips help you maximize the freshness and enjoyment of Boar’s Head’s premium meats. Now go make an amazing sandwich! Just be sure to eat it within 3 days.
