How Long Does Ham Last In The Fridge? And Signs Its Bad!

Do you have a leftover ham that you are wondering how long it will last? Not sure if it’s safe to eat, or what the best practices for storing ham in the fridge are? If so, then this blog post is for you. We’ll look at helpful information to answer your questions and provide tips on ensuring your ham stays as fresh as possible for when you’re ready to enjoy it. So read on to learn all about how long does ham last in the fridge.

What is ham?

Ham is an uncooked cured pork product that is usually sold in slices from the shoulder or leg of a pig. It can be eaten cold, as part of a sandwich or salad, or cooked and used in a variety of dishes. It’s also often smoked to enhance its flavor and texture.

History of ham

The word “ham” originated from Old English. First pork leg was cured in China in 4900 B.C. Romans learned the practice of curing ham through trading with the Chinese.
A recipe for ham with figs was popularized in second century banquet tables. Various types of hams were produced by the Gauls, including Bayonne, Black Forest, and Westphalian hams.

Nutritional information of ham

Ham, sliced, regular contains 91 calories per 56 grams serving size. 47% of the calories come from fat, 41% from protein and 9% from carbohydrates. A single serving provides 11% of the recommended daily fat intake. And while there are some health benefits associated with eating ham, it should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat and sodium content.

How to make ham at home?

Making ham at home can be done fairly easily. You’ll need to purchase a whole cured ham, which can usually be found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Once you’ve purchased the ham, it’s important to follow the instructions on the package for how long does ham last in the fridge and at what temperature you should cook it.

Then, simply bake it in the oven or slow-cook it in a crockpot with some vegetables and spices. Once your ham is cooked, let it cool before slicing and serving. And if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate.

Can you store ham in the fridge?

Yes, you can store ham in the fridge. Shaved or sliced ham should be stored in the fridge and last 3-5 days. Whole hams can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Sliced hams should be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. Cooked pieces of ham can last in the freezer for 2-3 months.

How long does ham last in the fridge?

When it comes to storing ham, the key is to keep it at a temperature below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Sliced meat, such as ham, has a shorter shelf life in the fridge than whole cuts. Fresh cut or spiral cut ham can last for 3-5 days in refrigerator.

Different types of ham and their storage times

The type of ham you have will also affect how long does ham last in the fridge.

Type of Ham	Refrigerate	Freeze
Fresh (uncured) Ham, uncooked	3 to 5 days	6 months
Fresh (uncured) Ham, cooked	3 to 4 days	3 to 4 months
Cured Ham, cook-before-eating; uncooked	5 to 7 days or “use-by” date*	3 to 4 months
Cured Ham, cook-before-eating; after consumer cooks it	3 to 5 days	1 to 2 months
Cooked Ham, vacuum sealed at plant, undated; unopened	2 weeks	1 to 2 months
Cooked Ham, vacuum sealed at plant, dated; unopened	“Use- by” date*	1 to 2 months
Cooked Ham, vacuum sealed at plant, undated or dated; opened	3 to 5 days	1 to 2 months
Cooked Ham, whole, store wrapped	7 days	1 to 2 months
Cooked Ham, half, store wrapped	3 to 5 days	1 to 2 months
Cooked Ham, slices, store wrapped	3 to 5 days	1 to 2 months
Spiral-cut hams and leftovers from consumer-cooked hams	3 to 5 days	1 to 2 months
**Country Ham, uncooked, cut	2 to 3 months	1 month
Country Ham, cooked	7 days	1 month
Canned Ham, labeled “Keep Refrigerated,” unopened	6 to 9 months	Do not freeze
Canned Ham, labeled “Keep Refrigerated,” opened	7 days	1 to 2 months
***Canned Ham, shelf stable, opened	3 to 4 days	1 to 2 months
Lunch Meat Ham, sealed at plant, unopened	2 weeks or “use-by” date*	1 to 2 months
Lunch Meat Ham, sealed at plant, after opening	3 to 5 days	1 to 2 months
Lunch Meat Ham, sliced in store	3 to 5 days	1 to 2 months
Prosciutto, Parma or Serrano Ham, dry Italian or Spanish type, cut	2 to 3 months	1 month

Signs that your ham has gone bad

Ham should not smell off, be discolored or feel slimy. Appropriate storage approaches include wrapping it with foil, butcher paper or plastic wrap, or storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag in the refrigerator. Refrigerated ham will keep for 3-5 days and freezed ham will last 1-2 months.

What happens if you eat spoiled ham?

Eating spoiled ham can lead to stomach aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. One may need a few days of healthy diet to overcome mild symptoms. Severe food poison symptoms should be examined by medical professionals.

Properly storing fresh and cooked ham to maximize its shelf-life

It’s important to properly store your ham in order to maximize its shelf-life. Store fresh and cooked ham in airtight packaging to maximize shelf-life. Refrigerator temperature should be maintained. Trust senses when it comes to freshness of the ham; discard if off smells, sliminess, or unusual discoloration are noticed.

Tips on keeping ham fresh for longer

There are a few tips and tricks to help keep your ham fresh for longer. Wrap ham in a ham-bag or damp tea-towel for storage in the fridge; wash bag/tea-towel every few days. For sliced ham, place paper towel in an airtight container and place slices on top; close container firmly and store in the fridge. Store pork in the coldest part of the fridge or freezer as soon as possible upon returning home. Check ‘best before’ date provided on pork; fresh pork should smell fresh and have a sweet aroma.

How to safely refreeze thawed ham?

Refreeze ham within three days of thawing for safety purposes. Do not refreeze if it has been left outside the refrigerator longer than two hours. Package properly to avoid freezer-burn. Divide into smaller portions prior to freezing.

How to enjoy your ham safely?

When it comes to enjoying your ham, make sure to cook it thoroughly and check the temperature with a thermometer. Additionally, avoid eating any leftovers that have been sitting out for more than two hours, as this can be potentially dangerous.

Some recipe with leftover ham

Are you looking for a way to use up your leftover ham? If so, then here are some delicious recipes that will help you get the most out of your leftovers.

Walnut and Roasted Ham Linguine

Walnut and Roasted Ham Linguine: a one-pan dinner featuring linguine, thin slices of ham, toasted walnuts, shallots, Parmesan cheese and parsley. Quick and easy to prepare in a single skillet. Topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potato Soup with Ham

Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potato Soup with Ham is a rich, thick, and creamy dish. It’s a great way to use up leftover holiday ham. Made in a slow cooker and using shortcuts like frozen hash brown potatoes, the soup requires little effort.

Ham Cake-ettes

Avon recommends making Ham Cake-ettes out of Easter ham leftovers. The combination of pancake and croquette make for a unique dish. Suggested condiments include honey mustard sauce, chutneys, and applesauce.

One-Pot Ham and Veggie Pasta

Quick and easy one-pot meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. Includes leftover ham, veggies, and creamy comfort food. Recipe idea comes from lutzflcat.

Ham and Pineapple Dinner

Melissa recommends a delicious Hawaiian-style dinner of cubed ham sautéed with onions and pineapple in a sweet sauce. The dish is great for using up leftovers, as well as with broccoli.

Ham and Cheese Breakfast Tortillas

Brittany describes Ham and Cheese Breakfast Tortillas as “delish”. The recipe uses leftover Christmas ham It is enhanced by adding salsa for flavor. Cheese, egg, and ham are also included.

Ham and Shrimp Gravy

Ham and Shrimp Gravy: a Southern classic inspired dish. Gravy reduces to create a flavorful, luxurious texture. Quick and easy meal to make.

Ham and Wild Rice Quiche

A flavorful quiche featuring ham, wild rice, mushrooms, and red bell peppers. Enhanced with a touch of Dijon mustard for added taste. Suited to breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Alternatively can be scrambled with eggs for an easy meal.

Conclusion: How long does ham last in the fridge

Ham is a great way to add flavor and protein to your diet. But it’s important to know how long it will last in the refrigerator so you can use it safely and enjoy its delicious taste. With the information provided here, you now have a better understanding of how long different types of ham will last in the fridge, as well as signs that your ham may have gone bad. Now you’ll be able to store and consume your ham safely, and get creative with some delicious recipe ideas for your leftovers.

FAQs Ham

Is ham still good after 7 days?

Uncooked and cooked store-bought hams should be discarded after 5 days. Whole hams can typically last up to one week in the fridge. Prosciutto, dry Italian hams, Spanish and Serrano hams can last 2-3 months in the fridge. Canned ham can last up to 6 months to 2 years if unopened; once open, it should be consumed within 3-5 days.

Can ham last 2 weeks in the fridge?

Whole hams can last up to 75 days in the fridge. Half hams can last for about 60 days. Precooked or spiral cut hams will last for around one week.

Is ham still good after 5 days?

Uncooked, cooked store-bought, and uncured cooked ham all last less than a week in the fridge. Deli cuts, cutlets, sandwich meat, country ham, and honey-glazed ham are all covered. After 5 days, discard any ham as it will have gone bad.

Can you eat 4 day old ham?

Ham should be consumed within five days of opening the packaging To determine how long to keep it in the refrigerator, check the expiration date on the package If it is past the expiration date, discard it

Can you eat ham 6 days out of date?

Eating expired ham may not make you sick, but it could taste unpleasant. Consuming expired ham could potentially lead to food poisoning if the meat is contaminated. Symptoms of food poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea.

Can expired ham make you sick?

Consuming expired ham can put one at risk for foodborne illnesses due to the presence of bacteria such as Listeria, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus. Eating expired ham can potentially lead to food poisoning.

Can you eat 2 week old deli ham?

Two-week old deli ham can be eaten, provided it is still in its packaging. Packaged lunch meats should generally be refrigerated for up to two weeks before being opened. Sliced deli meats bought at a deli can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days after opening.

Can I freeze cooked ham?

Cooked ham can be frozen. According to USDA guidelines, cooked spiral ham can last up to two months in the freezer. Proper packaging is important for food safety.

Is ham good after 3 weeks?

The USDA advises that fully cooked and vacuum sealed ham is good in the refrigerator until the “use by” date. If no “use by” date is present, ham can be consumed for up to 3 weeks.

How long can you keep honey baked ham in refrigerator?

Honey Baked Ham can be stored in the refrigerator for 7-10 days after thawing. Honey Baked Turkey Breast can be stored in the refrigerator for 5-7 days after thawing.

How long does packaged ham last after opening?

Ham can be safely eaten for up to five days after it has been opened. Always refer to the use-by date printed on the ham’s package for optimal freshness.