How Long Does Ham Steak Last in the Fridge or Freezer?

Ham steak is a delicious and versatile cured meat that can be enjoyed hot off the grill or cold in sandwiches and salads. But like any perishable food, it’s important to store ham steak properly to extend its shelf life and avoid spoilage. So how long does ham steak last in the fridge or freezer? Read on for a complete guide to maximizing the storage time for ham steak.

Fridge Storage Time for Ham Steak

When stored correctly in the refrigerator an unopened package of commercially packaged smoked ham steak will last for 7 to 10 days from the sell by date printed on the package. Once opened the ham steak should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and can keep for 3 to 5 days in the fridge.

The fridge preserves ham steak by slowing down bacterial growth. The cold air temperatures of a refrigerator, around 34°F to 40°F,helps delay spoilage but doesn’t completely stop bacteria from multiplying over time. That’s why it’s important to follow the time limits listed above for refrigerator storage.

Follow these tips for keeping ham steak fresh for as long as possible in the fridge

• Store ham steak on a shelf rather than in the door, where temperatures fluctuate more.

• Make sure your fridge is operating at the proper temperature, around 40°F or below.

• Keep the ham steak tightly wrapped at all times and avoid unwrapping until you’re ready to use it. This prevents drying out.

• Don’t overcrowd the fridge. Proper air circulation is key for maintaining cool temperatures throughout the space.

• Cook ham steak within 3 to 5 days of opening for optimum freshness and flavor.

Freezer Storage Time for Ham Steak

For extended storage, the freezer is the best place for ham steak. Commercially packaged smoked ham steak that is consistently frozen at 0°F will remain safe to eat indefinitely, though quality will start decreasing after 1 to 2 months.

To freeze ham steak:

• Double wrap the original retail packaging in a layer of aluminum foil or plastic freezer wrap. This prevents freezer burn which can cause dry spots and damage texture.

• For previously opened ham steak, wrap tightly in foil or place inside a freezer bag before freezing. Remove as much air as possible and seal thoroughly.

• Label ham steak packages with the cut, date, and weight before freezing. Use within 2 months for best flavor and texture.

• Avoid freezing ham steak more than once, as multiple thaws will speed up moisture loss.

The extremely cold environment of the freezer puts bacteria growth in a dormant state and slows down the chemical reactions that cause food spoilage.

Thawing Ham Steak

Always thaw frozen ham steak in the refrigerator, not at room temperature where bacteria can start multiplying rapidly. Small packages will thaw overnight in the fridge while larger cuts may take a day or two.

For quicker thawing, place the frozen ham steak in a watertight plastic bag and submerge in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until thawed. Cook immediately after thawing this way, don’t refreeze.

Microwave defrosting is an option for small pieces of ham steak but may lead to uneven thawing. Cook ham steak thawed this way right away, as some areas will begin to cook during microwaving.

How to Tell If Ham Steak Has Gone Bad

Rely on your senses of sight, smell and touch to determine if ham steak has spoiled:

• Sight: Discard ham steak that has developed mold, dry spots, or a slimy appearance. Good ham is lightly glossy and pink.

• Smell: Ham steak gives off a sour, ammonia-like odor when it starts rotting. If it smells bad, don’t risk tasting it.

• Touch: The texture changes from moist and supple to sticky, mushy, or dry when ham steak spoils.

Remember that cured meats like ham steak don’t present the usual clear visual clues of rotting like raw pork. Always err on the side of caution if ham steak smells, feels, or looks slightly off. Foodborne illnesses aren’t worth the risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make ham steak last longer?

• Store ham steak on the lowest shelf in the back of the fridge, where temperatures are coldest.

• Freeze ham steak for storage past 7-10 days.

• Add an extra layer of plastic wrap or foil around opened packages before refrigerating or freezing.

• Avoid cross-contaminating ham steak with raw meat juices by keeping them separate.

Can you refreeze thawed ham steak?

Previously-frozen ham steak can be safely refrozen after thawing in the refrigerator. However, the texture may become dry or mushy with repeated freezing and thawing. For best quality, cook thawed ham steak within 3 to 5 days.

Is it safe to eat expired ham steak?

It’s not recommended to eat ham steak past the printed sell by or use by date on the packaging. These dates account for fridge and freezer times. Consuming expired ham runs the risk of food poisoning from bacteria growth. When in doubt, throw it out.

How can you tell if frozen ham steak is still good?

Check for ice crystals inside the packaging. Their presence means ham steak has remained frozen continuously. If thawed and refrozen, the texture will be soft and watery. Frozen ham steak that smells bad or has dry, dull areas of freezer burn should be discarded.

The Takeaway on Ham Steak Storage

Knowing the fridge and freezer storage times for ham steak empowers you to plan meals, reduce waste, and save money while keeping your food fresh and safe. Follow the guidelines for maximum storage below:

• Unopened package in fridge: 7 to 10 days
• Opened package in fridge: 3 to 5 days
• Freezer storage: 1 to 2 months for best quality, indefinitely safe
• Cook or toss refrigerated ham steak after these times are up.

With proper storage techniques, you can enjoy conveniently keeping ham steak on hand for delicious sandwiches, breakfasts, and dinners any time.