How to Store Ham in the Fridge: Store Cooked or Uncooked

How to store ham in the fridge properly is essential to maintain its quality and freshness.

Store uncooked ham in the fridge by keeping it in its packaging and maintaining the seal. Place it in the coldest part of the fridge, typically the back, bottom shelf. Store for 3-5 days or until the expiration date on the packaging.

Store cooked, packaged ham from the store in the coldest part of the refrigerator. If the ham is vacuum-sealed and unopened, keep it in its original packaging. Cooked ham can typically last 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator once opened, unopened, it can last until the “use by” date on the package.

This article will examine how to refrigerate uncooked or cooked, packaged ham from the store. This includes preparation, rewrapping if necessary, temperature and timeframe.

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Ham on a cutting board. — Ham on a cutting board

How to Store Uncooked Ham in the Fridge

Storing uncooked ham properly in the refrigerator is essential to ensure its freshness and safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Choose the Right Ham

Select Fresh Ham: Choose a ham that is fresh and has not passed its expiration date. Look for hams that are well-packaged and free from any damage.

Step 2: Prepare the Ham for Storage

Keep in Original Packaging: If the ham is vacuum-sealed or wrapped tightly in plastic, you can keep it in its original packaging.
Rewrap if Necessary: If the packaging is damaged or if you have an open ham, rewrap it tightly in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or butcher paper. You can also place it in a resealable plastic bag to prevent air exposure.

Step 3: Label the Ham

Date the Packaging: If you rewrap the ham, use a marker to label the packaging with the date you are storing it. This will help you keep track of how long it has been in the refrigerator.

Step 4: Store in the Refrigerator

Place in the Coldest Part: Store the ham in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically at the back of the bottom shelf. This area maintains a consistent temperature.
Temperature Check: Ensure your refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or lower to keep the ham safe.

Step 5: Monitor Storage Time

Use Within Recommended Time: Uncooked ham can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. If you have a whole uncooked ham, it can last up to a week. Check any expiration dates on the packaging. Check for any signs of spoilage, such as off smells or discoloration.

Step 6: Consider Freezing for Longer Storage

Freeze if Needed: If you won’t be using the ham within the recommended time, consider freezing it.

How to Store Packaged Cooked Ham in the Fridge

Storing packaged, cooked ham properly in the refrigerator is important to maintain its freshness and safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Check the Packaging

Inspect the Ham: Ensure that the ham is in good condition, with no damage to the packaging. Check the “use by” or “sell by” date to ensure it is still fresh.

Step 2: Keep in Original Packaging

Leave Ham in Original Package: If the ham is vacuum-sealed and unopened, you can store it in its original packaging until you’re ready to use it.

Step 3: Open and Reseal if Necessary

If Opened: If you have already opened the package, make sure to rewrap the ham tightly. Use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or butcher paper to cover it securely. You can also place it in a resealable plastic bag.

Step 4: Label the Ham

Date the Packaging: If you rewrap the ham, label it with the date you are storing it. This will help you keep track of how long it has been in the refrigerator.

Step 5: Store in the Refrigerator

Place in the Coldest Part: Store the ham in the coldest part of the refrigerator, usually at the back of the bottom shelf. This area maintains a more consistent temperature.
Temperature Check: Ensure your refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or lower to keep the ham safe.

Step 6: Monitor Storage Time

Use Within Recommended Time: Cooked ham can typically last 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator once opened. If it is unopened, it can last until the “use by” date on the package.

Step 7: Consider Freezing for Longer Storage

Freeze if Needed: If you won’t be using the ham within the recommended time, consider freezing it.