How Long Does Spam Last in The Fridge After Opening?

Spam is a canned meat product that has been a pantry staple for many households for decades. It's a versatile and convenient food item that can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast to dinner. But what happens when you open a can of spam and don't use it all at once? How long will it last in the fridge? In this blog post, we will discuss the shelf life of spam, the best way to store it, and signs of spoilage to look out for.

Shelf Life of Spam

Before we dive into the specifics of storing spam, let's first understand its shelf life. According to the Hormel Foods website, spam has a shelf life of 3-5 years from the manufacturing date when stored in a cool, dry place. This means that if you purchase a can of spam from the grocery store, it will have a best-by date that is about 3-5 years from the manufacturing date.

However, once you open the can, the shelf life of spam decreases significantly. It is recommended to consume opened spam within 3-5 days, just like any other fresh meat product. This is because once the can is opened, the spam is exposed to air, which can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage. Therefore, it's important to store spam properly to prolong its shelf life and maintain its quality.

Best Way to Store Spam

The best way to store spam is in an airtight container in the fridge. This will prevent any air from getting to the spam and slow down the growth of bacteria. You can also use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to wrap the opened can of spam tightly before putting it in the fridge. Another option is to transfer the spam to an airtight freezer-safe bag and store it in the freezer.

If you plan on using a small portion of spam and want to store the rest, the best option is to cut the spam into slices and store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. This way, you can easily take out the desired amount of spam without having to thaw the whole can.

Storing Spam in the Freezer

If you have a lot of leftover spam and want to store it for an extended period, the freezer is your best bet. Spam can last in the freezer for a very long time, up to a year or more. The key is to store it properly. You can either freeze the unopened can of spam or transfer it to an airtight freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing it.

Another great way to freeze spam is by vacuum sealing it. This will remove all the air and prevent freezer burn, which can affect the quality of the spam. You can also wrap the spam slices in parchment paper before placing them in an airtight freezer bag to prevent them from sticking together.

Signs of Spoilage

Like any other food product, spam can spoil if not stored properly or kept for too long. Here are some signs of spoilage to look out for:

- Changes in color: If the spam has turned brown or green, it's a sign of spoilage. The original color of spam is pink, so any other color is a red flag.

- Changes in texture: If the spam appears slimy or has a mushy texture, it's a sign of bacterial growth and spoilage.

- Foul odor: If the spam has a foul or rancid odor, it's best to throw it away. Fresh spam should not have a strong smell.

- Signs of damage: If the can of spam has any dents, bulges, or leaks, it's best to discard it. These can be signs of bacterial growth or spoilage.

It's important to note that even if spam is past its expiration date, it doesn't necessarily mean it's spoiled. These dates are just a guideline for the best quality, and spam can still be safe to consume after the date has passed. However, if you notice any of the signs mentioned above, it's better to be safe than sorry and discard the spam.

Using Spam in Recipes

One of the great things about spam is its versatility in the kitchen. You can use it in a variety of dishes, from spam musubi to spam slices on top of pizza. However, when it comes to using spam in recipes, it's recommended to use fresh spam rather than leftover spam that has been stored in the fridge. This is because the texture of spam can change after being stored, and it may not taste as good as fresh spam.

Furthermore, it's important to cook spam properly to prevent any health risks. As with all raw meats, spam should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria. It's also essential to handle spam with clean hands and avoid cross-contamination with other food items.

In summary, spam has a long shelf life when stored properly, and the best way to store it is in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. Keep an eye out for signs of spoilage and always follow best practices when handling and cooking spam to prevent food poisoning.

Whether you're a fan of this mystery meat or see it as a good emergency food, knowing the shelf life of your leftover spam and how to store it properly is essential. With the tips mentioned in this blog post, you can enjoy the tastiest item in your pantry for longer and reduce food waste. So the next time you open a can of spam, remember to store it in an airtight container and use it within 3-5 days for the best flavor.