How Long Does Johnsonville Summer Sausage Last? A Complete Storage Guide

Johnsonville summer sausage is a tasty cured sausage perfect for snacking, sandwiches, pizzas, and more. But with its smoked flavor and convenient storage, it’s easy to stock up without considering how long it actually lasts.

Understanding the shelf life of Johnsonville summer sausage can help you store and enjoy it safely Follow this complete guide for everything you need to know

What is Johnsonville Summer Sausage?

Johnsonville summer sausage is a type of semi-dry cured sausage made by the Johnsonville company. It contains a blend of pork and beef flavored with spices like garlic, pepper, and smoke flavoring.

The sausage gets its signature smoky taste from a low-temperature smoking process. It has a firm texture and deep red color.

Johnsonville summer sausage comes fully cooked but not shelf-stable, It requires refrigeration to slow bacteria growth The sausage is sold vacuum sealed in plastic packaging to prolong its shelf life,

How Long Does Unopened Summer Sausage Last?

An unopened package of Johnsonville summer sausage can last 2-3 months past its “best by” date if stored properly in the refrigerator,

The cooler temperature of the fridge slows bacteria growth that could cause the sausage to spoil. An unopened package should be safe to eat within this window as long as there are no signs of spoilage.

For best quality, try to eat Johnsonville summer sausage before its “best by” or expiration date. But you can likely safely enjoy it for a short period beyond.

How Long Does Opened Summer Sausage Last?

Once opened, the shelf life of Johnsonville summer sausage shortens due to exposure to air, light, andhandling. Bacteria starts to grow more rapidly.

To maximize freshness, refrigerate opened summer sausage tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or butcher paper. It should keep for about 2-3 weeks.

Check for signs of spoilage before eating, such as mold, sliminess, or an off smell or color. Discard if any signs are present.

Proper Storage of Johnsonville Summer Sausage

To safely store Johnsonville summer sausage:

• Keep unopened packages in the refrigerator. The cold temperature helps slow bacteria growth.

• If opened, rewrap tightly in plastic wrap or butcher paper. Limit air exposure.

• Don’t let sausage sit at room temperature more than 2 hours before refrigerating.

• Avoid freezing, which can dry out the sausage’s texture.

• Watch for expiration dates and don’t eat past 3 months opened or unopened.

Following proper storage methods allows you to keep and enjoy Johnsonville’s quality summer sausage for its maximum shelf life.

Signs Johnsonville Summer Sausage Has Spoiled

Johnsonville summer sausage, like any meat, can show signs of spoilage before it becomes unsafe to eat. Look for:

• Mold growth – this appears as fuzzy spots or plumes on the sausage. Definitely discard at this point.

• Sliminess – bacteria growth causes a slippery, shiny texture.

• Grey color – cured meats normally have a pink or red color. Grey hues indicate spoilage.

• Off odors – spoiled sausage gives off sour, ammonia, or rancid smells.

• Unexpected flavors – taste should be smoky with savory spices. Bitter, sour notes signal spoilage.

If you notice any of these signs, err on the side of caution and throw away sausage. Consuming spoiled foods can potentially cause food poisoning.

How To Use Up Leftover Summer Sausage

To avoid waste, use up leftover Johnsonville summer sausage within 2 weeks of opening. Some delicious ways to enjoy small amounts:

• Breakfast sandwiches or breakfast burritos with eggs and cheese

• In omelets, frittatas, or strata

• On homemade pizza

• Added to pasta, like spaghetti alla carbonara

• On nachos or baked potatoes

• In mini charcuterieboard arrangements

• On lettuce wraps or sandwiches

• Chopped into salad topping

• Cooked into soups, beans, or rice dishes

With creative use, you can use every last bit of summer sausage before it expires. Just be sure to store leftovers properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can sealed, unopened summer sausage last at room temperature?

Johnsonville does not recommend leaving any of their sausages, including summer sausage, at room temperature. Always refrigerate for best quality and follow “best by” dates.

Can you freeze summer sausage?

Freezing is not recommended, as it can dry out the sausage’s texture. Refrigeration is best. If you do freeze, use within 2 months for optimal freshness.

What happens if you eat expired summer sausage?

If stores properly, summer sausage can sometimes last a short while past its date. But quality declines, and spoilage risks rise. It’s generally not recommended to knowingly eat expired foods due to potential for foodborne illness.

Does cooking summer sausage extend its shelf life?

No, cooking summer sausage does not extend its refrigerated shelf life. Cooked or uncooked, it should be eaten within 2 weeks of opening.

The Bottom Line

With proper refrigerated storage, an unopened package of Johnsonville summer sausage stays fresh for 2-3 months past its date, and lasts 2-3 weeks after opening. Watch for signs of spoilage, follow safe handling tips, and enjoy summer sausage’s signature flavor before it expires!