With its signature maple glaze and tender slices Boar’s Head ham is a go-to choice for easy sandwiches and charcuterie boards. But once opened, how long does this premium deli ham stay fresh in the fridge? Follow this guide to get the most out of your Boar’s Head ham.
Overview of Boar’s Head Ham
Boar’s Head offers premium deli hams crafted from the finest ingredients. Popular varieties include:
- Maple glazed ham
- Black forest ham
- Pineapple glazed ham
- Honey maple ham
- Smoked ham
Their hams come fully cooked and ready to enjoy. Thanks to careful curing and smoking, Boar’s Head ham delivers superior old-world flavor in every slice.
How Long Does Unopened Boar’s Head Ham Last?
An unopened package of Boar’s Head ham will keep for
- 5-10 days past the sell-by date when refrigerated below 40°F.
- For maximum freshness, eat within 3 days of purchasing.
The sell-by date indicates the last day it should be sold. Refrigerate promptly once purchased.
How Long Does Boar’s Head Ham Last After Opening?
Once opened, the shelf life of Boar’s Head ham decreases. Use opened packages within:
- 3-5 days for best quality.
- 7 days absolute maximum if refrigerated.
Re-wrap ham tightly or store in an airtight container. Discard any deli ham kept longer than 7 days after opening.
Freezing Boar’s Head Ham
For extended shelf life, freeze Boar’s Head ham up to 2-3 months. To freeze:
- Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap or wax paper.
- Place ham pieces in freezer bags with all air removed.
- Label with date and contents.
- Freeze at 0°F or below for best quality.
Thaw frozen ham overnight in the refrigerator before use.
Signs Boar’s Head Ham Has Spoiled
Watch for these signs that Boar’s Head ham has gone bad:
- Slimy texture and sticky surface
- Grayish or dull color
- Mold growth, usually white or green
- Rancid or sour smell
- Bitter, acidic or ammonia-like taste
When in doubt, play it safe and discard ham showing any odd traits. The preservatives in cured meats can mask spoilage. Trust your senses.
Maximizing Fridge Life
Keep Boar’s Head ham fresh longer with these tips:
- Store unopened packages by sell-by date. Use new ones first.
- Refrigerate at 40°F or below immediately after purchase.
- Keep deli meats in the coldest part of the fridge.
- Re-wrap opened ham tightly or store in a sealed container.
- Use within 3-5 days after opening for peak quality.
Proper refrigeration and minimal air exposure prolongs the shelf life.
Reheating Boar’s Head Ham
Enjoy Boar’s Head ham cold in sandwiches or wraps. To serve it warm:
- Reheat ham gently to 165°F. Avoid overheating.
- Use the microwave at 50% power or pan-fry over low.
- Heat only what you plan to eat immediately.
- Stir frequently to distribute heat evenly.
Creative Ways to Use Leftovers
Liven up meals with these ideas for leftover Boar’s Head ham:
- Breakfast – Omelets, frittatas, breakfast burritos
- Lunch – Quesadillas, paninis, ham rolls
- Snacks – Cheese and cracker plates
- Dinner – Pasta bakes, pizza, fried rice
- Sides – Grain bowls, potato salad, coleslaw
With proper storage and creative usage, you can fully enjoy every slice of delicious Boar’s Head ham before it expires. Follow these tips for ham heaven!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you tell if Boar’s Head ham is bad?
Look for sliminess, stickiness, foul odors, mold, dull color, rancid taste. Discard Boar’s Head ham with any of these signs of spoilage. Don’t risk eating it.
What is the freezer shelf life of Boar’s Head ham?
Freeze Boar’s Head ham up to 2-3 months for best quality. Pack slices individually and freeze at 0°F or below. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Can you freeze and re-freeze Boar’s Head ham?
It’s not recommended. Re-freezing causes texture and flavor changes. Refrigerate thawed ham and use within 3-5 days. Do not refreeze.
Does freezing affect the taste of Boar’s Head ham?
Freezing can diminish the texture and flavor of Boar’s Head ham over time. For best results, freeze no more than 2-3 months. Eat as soon as thawed.
How do you thaw frozen Boar’s Head ham?
Thaw frozen Boar’s Head ham overnight in the refrigerator. Microwaving leads to uneven thawing. Don’t thaw ham at room temperature.
How long is thawed Boar’s Head ham good for?
Consume thawed Boar’s Head ham within 3-5 days. Bacteria start multiplying quickly as it thaws. Keep thawed ham well refrigerated.
Can you eat Boar’s Head ham after 5 days?
It’s not recommended. Consume Boar’s Head ham within 3-5 days maximum after opening. Discard ham kept refrigerated longer than 5-7 days, even if it looks fine. Don’t risk eating spoiled deli meat.
Is it safe to eat Boar’s Head ham after the sell-by date?
Yes, Boar’s Head ham should be good for 5-10 days past the sell-by date if refrigerated continuously at 40°F or below. For best quality, try to eat within 3 days of purchasing.
