Does Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage Need Refrigeration?

Hillshire Farms makes some of the most beloved summer sausages on the market Tangy, robust and perfectly smoked, their sausages are a road trip and picnic staple But when it comes to storage, many wonder if Hillshire Farms summer sausage requires refrigeration before opening.

In this comprehensive guide we’ll provide a close look at proper storage methods to keep Hillshire Farms summer sausages fresh and safe to eat. We’ll also overview the key factors that affect shelf life signs of spoiled sausage, and tips for maximizing freshness.

Overview of Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage

Hillshire Farms offers summer sausage in two classic flavors – Beef Summer Sausage and Original Pork & Beef Summer Sausage. Some key qualities include:

• Smoked over natural hardwoods for robust flavor
• Made from a blend of ground beef and/or pork
• Contains sodium nitrite to inhibit bacteria growth
• Tangy, bold flavor from lactic acid fermentation
• Lower moisture content than other sausages

The fermentation and drying process gives summer sausages a longer shelf life than fresh sausages. The sodium nitrite and smoking further prevent spoilage. But they can still go bad eventually without proper storage.

Does Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage Require Refrigeration?

According to Hillshire Farms, their summer sausage products do not require refrigeration before opening. The natural preservatives allow it to be shelf-stable when still sealed in the original packaging.

However, Hillshire Farms recommends refrigerating the sausage after opening the package. This prevents spoilage bacteria from growing and extends the shelf life.

• Unopened – Shelf-stable due to preservatives
• Opened – Should be refrigerated

If planning to eat the sausage within a week, refrigeration isn’t required when sealed. But for longer storage, refrigerating is best.

Note that heat or humidity can still shorten shelf life of unopened packages without proper precautions.

How Long Does Refrigerated Summer Sausage Last?

When stored properly in the fridge, Hillshire Farms summer sausage will maintain peak quality for about 2-3 months past the sell-by date.

Here are the general fridge shelf life guidelines:

• Unopened – About 3 months
• Opened – About 1 month

The freezer can extend life even further, to 6-8 months when frozen continuously at 0°F.

Regardless of dates, rely on your senses – discard at any signs of spoilage. Don’t risk eating spoiled sausage.

What Affects Summer Sausage Shelf Life?

There are a few key factors that determine how long Hillshire Farms summer sausage stays fresh:

• Storage Temperature – Fridge preserves quality, room temp shortens life once opened
• Package Integrity – Intact packaging prevents early spoilage
• Preservatives – Sodium nitrite inhibits bacteria growth
• Air Exposure – Oxygen accelerates mold, off-flavors, and discoloration

Following proper storage guidelines from Hillshire Farms will maximize shelf life by controlling these factors.

How to Tell if Summer Sausage is Bad

Watch for these signs that Hillshire Farms sausage has gone bad:

• Slimy texture
• Discoloration or gray/greenish tinge
• Mold growth – fuzzy white/green spots
• Foul, sour or ammonia-like odors
• Very soft or mushy feel
• Expired by more than 2 months

Discard summer sausage immediately if you notice any of the above. Consuming spoiled meat can cause foodborne illness. When in doubt, throw it out.

Tips for Storing Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage

Follow these tips to maximize summer sausage shelf life:

• Refrigerate opened packages within 1 week
• Double wrap leftover portions to prevent air exposure
• Store unopened packs in a cool, dry pantry
• Freeze for longer storage (6-8 months max)
• Avoid temperature fluctuations after opening
• Check for signs of spoilage
• Discard if sell-by date is exceeded by 2+ months
• Buy smaller packages if you won’t finish quickly

With proper refrigeration and food safety practices, Hillshire Farms summer sausage can be enjoyed for months. Just remember to refrigerate opened packages within a week and check for any signs of spoilage.

Storing Unopened vs. Opened Packages

Unopened

For unopened packages:

• Store in a cool, dry pantry away from heat and moisture
• Avoid storing above 75°F for more than 1-2 days
• Refrigerate after purchase for maximum shelf life
• Use by the sell-by date for peak freshness

Opened

Once opened:

• Refrigerate below 40°F immediately
• Seal tightly in airtight packaging or bag
• Use within 1 month for best quality
• Check for odd smells or colors
• Don’t freeze opened packages

The Freezer Extends Shelf Life

Freezing unopened packages of Hillshire Farms summer sausage enables storage for 6-8 months while maintaining quality. Be sure to double wrap or seal packages before freezing to prevent freezer burn.

Thaw frozen sausage slowly in the refrigerator before use. Do not refreeze thawed sausage.

Is It Safe to Eat Past Expiration Date?

It’s not recommended to eat Hillshire Farms summer sausages beyond the printed expiration date. While they may look and smell normal, bacteria risk increases over time. Play it safe and discard expired sausage to avoid possible illness.

What Happens If You Eat Bad Summer Sausage?

Eating spoiled Hillshire Farms summer sausage could cause foodborne illness. Potential symptoms include:

• Nausea, vomiting
• Abdominal cramps and diarrhea
• Fever, chills
• Headaches

Seek medical treatment if you become ill after eating spoiled sausage. Drink plenty of fluids and replace lost electrolytes.

The Bottom Line

With proper refrigerated storage and food safety precautions, Hillshire Farms summer sausages can be enjoyed safely for 2-3 months past the sell-by date. Refrigerate opened packages within 1 week and check for any signs of spoilage.

Follow the storage recommendations from Hillshire Farms, trust your senses, and take care not to exceed expiration dates. Then you can enjoy delicious Hillshire Farms summer sausage worry-free on all your warm weather adventures.