Whenever it comes to keeping deli meals fresh, storing is considered first and foremost; storing them properly is really important. When preparing meals for your family or hosting friends, it’s important to know how long deli meat will stay in the fridge.
In this article, I will help you to understand how long deli meat lasts in the fridge. how long you can keep your sliced deli meats fresh and share some tips to keep them tasty for longer.
Contents
What is Deli Meat?
Commonly referred to as lunch meat or deli meat, cold cuts are sliced and typically served cold pieces of cooked or cured meat that can be found on party trays and in sandwiches.
Types Of Deli Meat
Deli meat comes in various types, such as ham, turkey, roast beef, salami, & bologna. You can eat deli meat right away without cooking it again. You can buy it already sliced or ask the deli to slice it. Deli meat is convenient to use for quick meals & snacks.
How Long Fresh Deli Meat Keeps Good in Your Fridge
If you purchase your meat sliced and wrapped from the deli counter, the length of time that it remains fresh is similar to that of a package of delicatessen meat:
- Three to five days in the refrigerator.
This is because both types of meat have been handled and placed under air, which allows other germs to enter. The timing only works if you keep it properly chilled in your fridge.
Step to Store Deli Meat Properly
- The first step is to store it immediately after bringing it home; do not wait. Whether prepackaged or freshly cut, don’t keep it out too long. Since it has already been stored, you should not leave it out for longer than two hours. If you leave it at room temperature for too long, it will go bad.
- Its temperature will rise between 40 and 140 degrees after two hours of exposure, which enables dangerous bacteria to grow rapidly.
- After this, you should store the deli meat in the fridge. There are two methods: you can store it directly in the container you bought it in, or if you want to store it in a separate container, you should mention the date on it.
- I suggest storing it in the coolest part of the fridge, the back part. Some people store it in the fridge door, but I do not recommend this for two reasons: first, this area can get heated, and secondly, it has additional storage space. Just keep nothing on top of the container where you store it.
Can I freeze Deli Meat?
Yes, you can freeze deli meat, but safety precautions are really important, because a small mistake during freezing can ruin it. Let me share a detailed step-by-step process to store deli meat properly.
Step 1: Freezing Unopened Packages
If the prepackaged meat has not been opened, leave it in its original packaging or transfer it into a freezer bag to minimize freezer burn.
Step 2: Freezing Opened Packages
For opened packages, transfer the leftovers to a new freezer bag. Another way is to divide the sliced meats into individual plates, cover them with aluminum foil, and then keep all the plates in an airtight box.
Step 3: Wrap Tightly
While storing deli meats, it is necessary to wrap them properly to avoid the occurrence of freezer burn. The refrigerator cools the air inside and circulates in the freezer, so less air means thus less freezer burn.
There are three options with regard to this matter:
- Freezer bags
- Plastic wrap
- Heavy aluminum foil.
When using plastic wrap when packing your lunch meats, ensure that you cover the meats with two layers.
Step 4: Consider the Type of Meat
Some products, such as salami, contain more fat and less water than regular meats with much water content, making them freeze well.
Food products tend to be in a better condition when they are stored in the freezer than in the fridge after their sell-by date.
Step 5: Avoid Spoilage
To reduce the growth of bacteria & possible poisoning, try to ensure that no food item spoils in the fridge to twist off the chances of contamination.
Step 6: Freezer Duration
You can’t keep it in the freezer for more than 6 months; otherwise, it will not be safe to eat.
Step 7: Thawing
The best thing to do when you are ready to use your deli meat is to thaw it in the fridge to ensure even and safe defrosting.
Signs of Bad Deli Meat
It’s a really important point because rotten meat means diseases, so I will share some steps to remember before using a store or frozen deli meal.
- Sour smell: Smell is the main source determining whether or not it is good. If it gives a sour odor, you should not consume it.
- Slimy Texture: If you notice a slimy texture, it’s a sign of bacterial growth or yeast on your meat, so avoid using it.
- Discoloration: Well, you know the color of fresh deli meat. If you notice a change in color, especially from the edges of the slices, it means it’s better to throw it away.
Some people say you only check signs when you store them briefly, but that is not true. Remember, whether you store or freeze it, checking the signs of rotten meat is essential.
How to Thaw Deli Meat
I know the three best methods to thaw deli meat. Well, I tried all three of these methods. You can use them. Each process is suitable.
Method 1: Refrigerator Thawing
Thawing meat in the refrigerator is the safest method. This method takes about a day, so planning ahead is best. Put the meat on a plate and store it in the fridge at a cool temperature—below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (or about 4 degrees Celsius)—to keep it safe to eat.
Method 2: Cold Water Thawing
If you need to thaw your meat a bit quicker, you can use the cold water method. It usually takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on how big the piece of meat is.
Just ensure the meat is in a sealed plastic bag to prevent water from getting in. Fill a bowl with cold water and immerse the bag.
To keep the water cold, change it every half an hour. Do not forget to cook the meat as soon as it thaws.
Method 3: Microwave Thawing
For the fastest option, you can use the microwave. This method takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Use the defrost setting on your microwave, and make sure to turn the meat a few times for even thawing.
However, be aware that some parts might start cooking, so you should cook the meat immediately after thawing it.
Quick Related FAQs
Is it okay to consume deli meat past its expiration date?
You can still eat deli meat for a little while after the sell-by date as long as you’ve stored it correctly. Always check for any indications that it could be spoiled.
How should I thaw frozen deli meat?
Store frozen deli meat in the refrigerator for approximately 24 hours to safely thaw it. I’ll help keep it fresh and safe to eat.
Can I refreeze deli meat after it has been thawed?
Yes, you can refreeze deli meat after it has been thawed, but it might not taste as good. Some quality may be lost when you do this.
Does the type of deli meat affect its shelf life?
Absolutely! Different types of deli meats last for different amounts of time. For example, cured meats like salami can often last longer than fresh turkey or chicken.
What temperature should I keep my refrigerator for storing deli meat?
Make sure your refrigerator is set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) or lower. This helps stop harmful bacteria from growing and keeps your deli meat fresh.
Final Words
I hope it’s clear how long deli meat lasts in the fridge. Before you freeze or store it, keep these points in mind. Before consuming your deli meat, keep its spoilage points in mind; it will safe you from many diseases.