How Long Does Vacuum-Sealed Salami Last?

Vacuum sealing removes the air from the packaging, thus keeping the product fresh for a longer time, maintaining its aroma, and preventing other flavors from affecting its quality.

Plus, it’s an excellent option for extending the product’s shelf life. This packing option is used for various foods, one of them being salami.

If you have one at home, you’re probably wondering – how long does vacuum sealed salami last? Unfortunately, there’s no universal answer to this question since it depends on several factors. This article will dive deep into the salami world and discuss how long you can keep vacuum-sealed salami before it goes bad.

How Long Does Vacuum-Sealed Salami Last at Room Temperature?

A whole vacuum-sealed salami can last for quite some time at room temperature. Even when it’s not vacuum-sealed, salami can be kept unrefrigerated for about six weeks.

Since vacuum packing extends the shelf life, salami can last for several months at room temperature.

Note that this is possible only when the packaging hasn’t been opened and the salami is whole. If you purchased a package of vacuum-sealed cut salami, then you should put it in the refrigerator even when it’s not opened.

Namely, anaerobic bacteria can penetrate the meat even when there’s no air in the packaging. So if you want to be sure salami doesn’t go bad, the best option is to keep it in the refrigerator.

How Long Does Frozen Vacuum-Sealed Salami Last?

If you know you won’t eat the salami within the dates stated on the packaging, the best option is to freeze it. When it’s frozen before the expiration date, salami will remain safe indefinitely.

When it’s not vacuum-sealed, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations state that salami remains safe indefinitely. Still, its quality may be reduced or its flavor change after 1-2 months.

The vacuum seal lets you preserve the salami’s flavor and avoid jeopardizing it if placed with other food products in the freezer.

If you decide to freeze it after the date stated on the packaging, the salami may have already gone bad. Before consuming salami, always look for spoilage signs, i.e., changes in appearance, smell, or taste.

Even when it’s within the expiration date, you should discard the meat if you notice these changes.

In Summary

So, how long does vacuum-sealed salami last? It depends on if the packaging has been opened and whether you’ve purchased a whole or cut salami.

One thing is sure: the vacuum seal extends the shelf life. But to be safe, it’s essential to keep into account the dates on the packaging.

In addition to following the expiration dates, you should always rely on your senses and estimate whether the salami is safe to consume.