Vacuum sealing is one of the most effective methods for extending the shelf life of ham. By removing oxygen from the packaging, vacuum sealing inhibits bacteria growth and slows down food degradation.
But just how long does vacuum sealed ham stay fresh? This guide has everything you need to know about maximizing the shelf life and recognizing spoilage of vacuum sealed hams.
Overview of Vacuum Sealed Ham
Vacuum sealed ham refers to ham that has been packaged in an air-tight, oxygen depleted environment. This could be a vacuum sealed pouch or rigid plastic container.
The vacuum sealing process extends the expiration date of ham by preventing oxidation reactions and aerobic bacteria growth It creates an anaerobic environment inhospitable to most spoilage organisms,
Both whole cured hams and sliced deli hams can be vacuum packed. This packaging method keeps ham fresher longer than traditional wrapping methods.
How Long Does Vacuum Sealed Ham Last Refrigerated?
When properly stored in the refrigerator, vacuum sealed ham lasts:
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Unopened cured – 2 weeks past the use-by date
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Opened, cured – 3 to 5 days
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Unopened, uncured – 1 week
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Opened, uncured – 3 to 5 days
Cured ham has a longer shelf life than uncured due to the salt and preservatives used in curing. But once opened, all vacuum packed ham should be consumed within 3 to 5 days.
Monitor vacuum sealed ham for signs of spoilage and discard if it has an off odor, appearance or texture. Freezing can further extend the expiration.
Does Vacuum Sealed Ham Go Bad?
Yes, vacuum sealed ham can still go bad after some time, especially if stored incorrectly. Some signs that vacuum packed ham has spoiled include:
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Slimy texture and dull or wet appearance
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Unpleasant sour or ammonia-like smell
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Discoloration – greenish, greyish or brownish tinge
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Mold growth visible on ham
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Dry, tacky patches on the ham
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Significantly past the use-by date
If you notice your vacuum sealed ham exhibiting any of these red flags of spoilage, it’s safest to discard it. The anaerobic packaging will slow microbe growth but does not completely prevent it.
How to Store Vacuum Packed Ham
To safely prolong the shelf life of vacuum sealed ham:
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Refrigerate at 40°F or below after purchasing
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Avoid storing in refrigerator door which tends to be warmer
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Wipe down packaging to remove leaks, tears or residue
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Place newer packages at back of refrigerator
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Open package with clean tools and hands
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Re-wrap cut portions tightly in plastic wrap or airtight containers
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Consume within 3 to 5 days of opening package
Proper cold storage is key to preventing bacterial growth and deterioration in vacuum sealed items. Follow the storage recommendations carefully.
Freezing Vacuum Sealed Ham
For maximum longevity, vacuum sealed ham can be frozen below 0°F. Follow these guidelines:
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Freeze unopened packages for up to 2 months.
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Opened packages can be frozen for 1 month.
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Double wrap or place in freezer bags before freezing.
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Thaw slowly in the refrigerator, never at room temperature.
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Cook thawed ham immediately, do not refreeze.
Freezing stops bacteria growth and enzyme reactions that cause food spoilage. With freezing, vacuum sealed ham can last significantly past its refrigerator lifespan.
Cooking Previously Frozen Ham
To safely cook ham that was previously frozen:
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Thaw ham for 1-2 days in the refrigerator until completely defrosted. Do not thaw at room temperature.
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Cook thawed ham right away, do not refreeze.
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Heat ham to an internal temperature of 140°F. Use a meat thermometer to verify doneness.
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Bring soups, sauces and gravies containing ham to a full boil.
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Discard any ham that has an unpleasant odor or appearance after thawing.
Proper thawing and reheating destroys pathogens that may have developed in the ham during frozen storage. This makes previously frozen ham safe to eat again.
Enjoying Vacuum Sealed Ham
Vacuum sealed ham has a multitude of usages. Here are some delicious ways to use up ham before it expires:
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Stack sliced ham on sandwiches, paninis or breakfast sandwiches.
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Dice and add to omelets, quiches, pasta salad or potato casseroles.
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Pair with melon or peach halves for an easy appetizer.
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Fold into wontons, spring rolls or dumplings for Asian-inspired dishes.
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use in soups like split pea ham soup or ham and bean.
Thanks to vacuum sealing, you can keep deli sliced ham or whole hams fresh for weeks. Just be sure to refrigerate opened packages within 3 to 5 days. With proper storage, vacuum packed ham stays safe and tasty for everyday meals.
Vacuum Sealing Ham at Home
You can vacuum seal ham yourself using a few simple tools:
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Vacuum sealer machine – Affordable countertop appliances that remove air from bags.
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Vacuum bags – Special bags compatible with vacuum sealers.
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Deep freezer – For freezing vacuum packed items.
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Meat mallet – To flatten items like bone-in ham for vacuuming.
For best results, select high-quality fresh ham and properly cure it before vacuum packing. Portion into meal-sized amounts and follow the refrigeration guidelines after opening.
Signs of Spoiled Vacuum Packed Ham
Always inspect vacuum sealed ham for any signs of spoilage before eating. Look for:
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Discoloration or dull, wet appearance
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Unpleasant sour or ammonia odor
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Slime formation or a tacky texture
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Mold growth – fuzzy spots or areas
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Dry, stiff patches on the ham
If you notice any of these, don’t risk eating the ham. Remember, vacuum sealing only slows spoilage – it doesn’t completely eliminate it. When in doubt, play it safe and discard it.
Vacuum Sealing Ham FAQs
Got questions about vacuum packed ham? Here are answers to some common queries:
How long does deli ham last after opening the vacuum sealed package?
Once opened, deli ham will last 3 to 5 days refrigerated even if vacuum sealed. Discard any remaining slices after this timeframe.
Can I freeze ham after opening the vacuum sealed package?
It’s not recommended to refreeze deli ham after opening, as the texture suffers. For best quality, cook ham within 3-5 days.
Does vacuum sealed ham need to be refrigerated or can it sit out?
Refrigeration is still required for vacuum packed ham to prevent spoilage. Never leave it sitting at room temperature.
What happens if vacuum sealed ham molds?
If you notice mold on vacuum packed ham, discard it. Mold can penetrate deep into foods and the roots may not be visible. It’s not worth eating moldy ham due to health risks.
Can I microwave vacuum sealed ham?
Yes, you can microwave vacuum sealed ham to quickly heat it up for sandwiches and meals. The packaging is microwavable. Just transfer to a plate after heating.
The Takeaway on Vacuum Packed Ham
Vacuum sealing gives ham an extended shelf life compared to traditional packaging. Unopened, it lasts for weeks beyond its expiration date. But once exposed to air, vacuum sealed ham only lasts 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Look for visual and odor cues that indicate spoilage before eating vacuum sealed ham. With proper cold storage, vacuum packaging provides a handy way to keep deli and cured ham fresher longer.