Cold Food Storage Chart
Food
|
Type
|
Freezer [0°F (-18°C) or below]
|
Ham
|
Cured, cook-before-eating, uncooked
|
3 to 4 months
|
|
Fully-cooked, vacuum-sealed at plant, unopened
|
1 to 2 months
|
|
Cooked, store-wrapped, whole
|
1 to 2 months
|
|
Cooked, store-wrapped, slices, half, or spiral cut
|
1 to 2 months
|
Although leftover ham is perfectly fine to eat cold, the USDA says to keep leftovers out of the danger zone, which is between 40 degrees and 140 degrees. Bacteria tends to grow at those temperatures, which can cause foodborne illnesses.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, ham is good for three to five days in the refrigerator after it is cooked. If you need more time to use up those leftovers, ham will last up to two months in the freezer.
If you decide to freeze leftovers, the safest ways to thaw them are in the microwave, in the refrigerator or using cold water.
“Cover leftovers, wrap them in airtight packaging, or seal them in storage containers. These practices help keep bacteria out, retain moisture, and prevent leftovers from picking up odors from other food in the refrigerator. Immediately refrigerate or freeze the wrapped leftovers for rapid cooling,” the USDA said.
According to Google Trends, the most popular searches for leftover ham include split pea soup, ham and potato casserole, leftover ham and mashed potatoes, ham and noodle casserole and ham bone soup.
How long can a thawed cooked ham stay in the fridge?
FAQ
Can you freeze a ham for 2 years?
How long is a fully cooked ham good for in the freezer?
How long can you keep a spiral ham in the freezer?
How long can you keep a leftover ham bone in the freezer?
How long can a ham stay in the freezer?
Here are the general guidelines for different types of ham: Fully Cooked Ham: Fully cooked hams, such as spiral-cut or boneless hams, can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. However, for best quality, it is recommended to consume them within 1 to 2 months.
How long can ham be without refrigeration and still be safe?
Most food experts recommend that ham, should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After that time, you should discard it.
Can you freeze a whole Ham?
Yes, you can freeze a whole ham. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. For longer storage, consider using a vacuum sealer to remove as much air as possible before freezing. Q How long can I keep a ham in the freezer?
How do you store a frozen ham?
Here are some guidelines to follow: Double Wrapping: To provide extra protection against freezer burn, consider double-wrapping your frozen ham. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring there are no air pockets. Then place it in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.