Maximizing the Shelf Life of Boar’s Head Chicken Sausage

Boar’s Head is renowned for its premium deli meats and sausages, including its all-natural chicken sausage. With its minimal processing and lack of preservatives, Boar’s Head chicken sausage has a more limited shelf life compared to mass-produced sausages full of chemicals and additives. But with proper storage and handling, you can easily extend the freshness of Boar’s Head chicken sausage to enjoy it at its best. This article provides tips on maximizing the shelf life so you can feel good about serving Boar’s Head chicken sausage to your family and friends.

Follow Recommended Storage Guidelines

The first step is following Boar’s Head’s recommendations for storing unopened packages of chicken sausage. Keep the sausage refrigerated at all times at 40°F or below. The consistent cold temperature inhibits bacteria growth and maintains quality. Don’t store the sausage in the door where the temperature fluctuates. Place it on a shelf deep within the refrigerator. If you have a meat drawer that’s ideal.

Once opened, rewrap the sausage tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Continuously sealing out air prevents drying and preserves freshness. Use the opened sausage within 3 days for optimum flavor and texture. Write the date you opened it on the package as a reference.

For extra longevity, consider freezing portions of chicken sausage you won’t use right away. With airtight freezer packaging frozen Boar’s Head chicken sausage stays tasty for 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before using. Following Boar’s Head’s guidance allows you to enjoy the sausage for the longest possible time.

Monitor Expiration Dates

Boar’s Head chicken sausages have sell-by dates printed on the packaging This date indicates the last day the retailer can display the product for sale But the sausage remains consumable for 3 days beyond this date when properly stored at home.

Examine the sausage closely as the sell-by date approaches. Check for changes in color, sliminess, or sour odors that signal spoilage. If the sausage still looks, smells, and feels normal, it should be fine to eat for 3 days past the date. However, consume it within a week of the sell-by at maximum for safety. Paying attention to expiration dates reduces waste and keeps you safe.

Purchase Proper Portions

Another trick is only buying amounts of chicken sausage that your household can consume within 3 days. If a package contains 8 sausages but you’ll only use 2 a week, rewrap and freeze half the package to avoid waste. Or opt for smaller portion packs for 1-2 people. Buying appropriate quantities for your needs helps minimize opened packages sitting in the fridge too long.

Handle with Clean Utensils

Always use clean hands utensils, cutting boards and dishes when handling raw chicken sausage. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after working with the sausage. Prevent bacteria transfer by dedicating specific cutlery only for raw meats. Keep sink areas, sponges, towels, and prep tools sanitized. Following strict hygiene protocols boosts the shelf life by reducing spoilage risks.

Wrap Tightly After Serving

Once you’ve cooked the desired portion of chicken sausage, make sure to seal up the remaining links right away in plastic wrap or a tight container. Exposure to air starts drying out the sausage. Letting it sit overnight leads to texture changes and accelerated spoilage. For best results, serve only what you’ll eat immediately and promptly wrap the leftovers.

Maintain Consistent Refrigerator Temps

Use a refrigerator thermometer to routinely verify your fridge temp is at 40°F or below. Fluctuating temps shorten shelf life. Make sure to keep the chicken sausage far from the door in the coldest area of the fridge. Avoid overcrowding the fridge or blocking vents so cool air can circulate properly. Keeping your refrigerator in top condition ensures an optimally cold storage environment.

Cook Within 2 Days of Thawing

When thawing frozen Boar’s Head chicken sausage, allow 12-24 hours in the refrigerator for full thawing. Cook the sausage within an additional 1-2 days for highest quality. The thawing process causes some moisture and texture changes. Eating the thawed sausage soon retains its flavor. With efficient thawing and prompt cooking, frozen sausage enjoys nearly the same shelf life as fresh.

Discard if Expired, Slimy or Smelly

Ultimately, your senses provide the best judgment on chicken sausage freshness. If the sausage is past the expiration or looks grayish, slimy, or smells bad, throw it out. Don’t take risks with spoiled food. When in doubt, remember Boar’s Head’s motto: “Never serve or sell anything you wouldn’t eat yourself.” Prioritizing safety lets you feel confident serving Boar’s Head chicken sausage to family and friends within its maximum freshness window.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can optimize the shelf life of premium Boar’s Head chicken sausage. Follow proper storage, handling, freezing, and hygiene practices to enjoy the quality and taste for as long as possible. With some simple diligence, you can serve incredibly delicious chicken sausage without worry.