How Long Does Opened Spam Last? The Ultimate Guide
In the far corner of your pantry or in the recesses of your fridge, you might have a tin of Spam sitting unattended. Sure, it’s not a Michelin-star item, but it does beg the question, how long does opened Spam last? Let’s shed light on this matter, diving deep into the lifespan of this beloved canned meat, and equip you with necessary insights to ensure your food safety.
Unopened Spam has a fairly decent shelf life, as touted by its maker. When stored in a cool, dry nook like your pantry, it can stay good for as long as two years. However, the game changes once you pop the seal. The protective layer keeping bacteria and other undesirable elements at bay is no more, and hence, the shelf life dips.
When it comes to the lifespan of opened Spam, remember this cardinal rule: never store it back in the can. Bacteria love to set up shop in such situations, making the meat unsafe to eat. Instead, transfer the remaining meat into a sealed container and put it in the refrigerator.
So, circling back to our main question – how long does opened Spam last? If you’ve stored it properly in your fridge, opened Spam can sail through a solid seven days. Now, this is provided your fridge’s temperature doesn’t soar above 40°F – the standard temperature for safe refrigeration. Once you’re looking at day six or seven, it’s a good practice to discard any leftover Spam.
Making the Most of Your Opened Spam
Alright, let’s say you’re not a ‘Spam-everyday’ kind of person and can’t finish it within seven days. What do you do? Fear not, because freezing comes to your rescue. A simple shift from the fridge to the freezer, and your opened Spam can stretch up to six weeks. Make sure to pack the meat in a freezer-safe airtight container or a trusty plastic freezer bag before popping it in the freezer.
Here’s something you should remember: the quality of Spam might take a hit after it thaws, so don’t dilly-dally – use it up as soon as possible. And once you’ve thawed it, keep it out of the freezer. Refreezing is a big no-no.
Understanding Signs of Spoiled Spam
Our discussion on how long does opened Spam last would be incomplete without talking about spotting spoiled Spam. Here are six indicators you need to look out for:
- Color Changes: If you notice a color shift from pinkish to grey or dark, it’s a clear sign that the Spam has gone bad.
- Foul Smell: A significant change in the smell, especially a foul or off-putting one, is a red flag.
- Mold Growth: Visible mold is a clear-cut sign of spoilage. Never consume Spam with even the slightest sign of mold.
- Slime Formation: Any kind of slimy layer or unusual texture on the meat is a warning sign.
- Taste: If the Spam tastes sour or off, it’s time to throw it away.
- Swelling Can: While this is for unopened cans, a swollen can is a definite indication of bacteria build-up and spoilage.
In a Nutshell: How Long Does Opened Spam Last?
The lifespan of opened Spam is quite short and depends heavily on correct storage to prevent bacterial growth. When in doubt, pitch it out. It’s far better to side with safety than risk foodborne illnesses. Eat up your opened Spam within a week or freeze it to extend its life for six weeks. And of course, adhere to food safety guidelines and stay informed about the lifespan of your food items.
FAQs
❖ What is the best way to store opened Spam?
Storing opened Spam requires a bit of care. You should place the leftover meat in a sealed container and store it in the refrigerator. This way, it can stay fresh for up to seven days.
❖ Can I keep opened Spam at room temperature?
Absolutely not. Once opened, Spam becomes susceptible to bacterial growth and should not be kept at room temperature. It should be refrigerated or frozen for safe consumption.
❖ Is it safe to eat Spam that smells a bit off but looks fine?
No, it isn’t. A change in smell is an indication of spoilage. If it smells off, it’s best to throw it away, regardless of its appearance.
❖ Can you refreeze Spam once it’s thawed?
Refreezing thawed Spam is not recommended. It can compromise its taste and texture, and can potentially increase the risk of bacterial contamination.
❖ What happens if I eat spoiled Spam?
Eating spoiled Spam can cause food poisoning. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, fever and chills.
❖ Is it okay to eat Spam straight from the can?
Yes, it is. Spam is pre-cooked, so it’s safe to eat straight from the can.
❖ How to tell if Spam is spoiled without tasting it?
Look for signs such as color change, foul smell, mold growth, or slime formation. These are clear indicators of spoilage.
❖ What is the best way to defrost frozen Spam?
The safest way to defrost frozen Spam is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight.
❖ Can I still eat Spam after its ‘best by’ date?
If the can is unopened, Spam is safe to consume for a few weeks to a month after the ‘best by’ date. However, always check for signs of spoilage before eating.
❖ Does freezing Spam affect its taste or texture?
Freezing Spam can slightly alter its texture and taste. It’s recommended to use it soon after thawing for the best quality.