What is the average shelf life of spam? How long does spam last in the pantry, refrigerator, or freezer? What is the best way to store spam to increase its shelf life? Find out the answers to these questions and more below:
Shelf Life of Spam
| Pantry | Refrigerator | Freezer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unopened | 3-5 Years | N/A | N/A |
| Opened | N/A | 7-10 Days | N/A |
When buying a can of Spam, you’ll want to be sure you get one that is not bent, dented, or damaged in anyway. Most of the cans nowadays, have a pull-tab that peels back across the top to open. Ensure that is intact also. Check the date on the can for quality and freshness.
The Classic Spam is made using six (6) ingredients. It comes in two sizes: a 7 oz. can, and a 12 oz. can.
Following is a list of the other varieties and choices of Spam that the Hormel Company offers.
- Spam Lite (50% less fat; 25% less sodium, 33% fewer calories than Classic Spam)
- Spam (25% less sodium)
- Spam With Real Hormel Bacon
- Spam Oven Roasted Turkey Made With 100% White Lean Turkey
- Spam Hickory Smoke Flavored
- Spam Hot & Spicy Tabasco
- Spam Jalapeno
- Spam Teriyaki
- Spam Black Pepper
- Spam With Chorizo Seasoning
- Spam With Portuguese Sausage Seasoning
- Spam With Tocino Seasoning
- Spam With Cheese
- Spam Garlic
- Spam Mezclita Pork & Cheese Spread
- Spam Single Classic
- Spam Single Lite
- Spam Spread
STORING SPAM
Since canned goods have a long shelf-life and will last for years, it’s easy to store them in the pantry. Their contents have been preserved by heat and then seal by an airtight, vacuum-seal process that destroys microorganisms and stops enzymes from reacting and halts any new bacterial growth. After it’s open, it should be stored in the refrigerator.
HOW TO HANDLE SPAM
As far as processed meat goes, Spam doesn’t require any special handling. Peel the tab back and use a table knife to work it from the can. Slice as needed.
It is recommended that you wash your hands and all surfaces with warm, soapy water.
COOKING SPAM
There are many ways to use Spam in cooking. Chopped up in an omelet, replace your bacon or ham slice with Spam at breakfast, Spam slices on a sandwich with lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles, chopped pieces mixed in with cheesy potatoes, chopped pieces mixed into mac ‘n cheese, chopped pieces mixed in with rice and onions. This is making me really hungry! Put leftovers in the refrigerator right away.