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Super Contributor
Posts: 292
Registered: ‎04-02-2013

Hi. Bought a Smithfield spiral cut ham at BJs just before Thanksgiving, and it has been in refridgerator since then, not freezer. The sell by date is February 2023. Is it ok to eat if has has been in fridge for over a month.? Don't want to make anyone sick! Thank you in advance!

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 5,901
Registered: ‎05-27-2015

@Susic  It should be fine, as long as your refrigerator is behaving normally and keeping things at an even temp. There is so much salt in the ham, it should be good for a while. DH used to be a USDA meat inspector, and he said no problem.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 32,486
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

@PA Mom-mom wrote:

@Susic  It should be fine, as long as your refrigerator is behaving normally and keeping things at an even temp. There is so much salt in the ham, it should be good for a while. DH used to be a USDA meat inspector, and he said no problem.


@PA Mom-mom Good for him!!  Does he have any thoughts about the all uncured ham products out there now?  I can't decide whether I think they are a good or bad thing.  

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 5,901
Registered: ‎05-27-2015

@Sooner  Sorry, in his work he mainly worked with chemically injected "cured" products. He had very little experience with naturally "cured" (uncured) products. Check the labels for ingredients and cooking directions. 

Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,223
Registered: ‎02-14-2017

It's fine.  If it's not fine, you'll know it by the smell, color, and texture.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 15,523
Registered: ‎09-01-2010

The ham will be fine; probably colder in your refrigerator than in an open refrigerated store showcase.  

Super Contributor
Posts: 292
Registered: ‎04-02-2013

Great! Thank you all for replies. Was going to throw out, but thought maybe would be ok, since I kept it way in back under ice machine. Figured it would same ones in big open case at market . I was hoping tag would say freeze or use by certain date. But it just said use by 2/23...Always get good advice her! Have a great Holiday, Susi.

Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 6,891
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

If the sell by date is Feb. of next year, I don't know why you would even question anyone as to whether or not the ham is ok.  (I don't mean that in a snarky way, I'm genuinely confused).  Trust the date.  

Valued Contributor
Posts: 515
Registered: ‎11-21-2013

@RollTide2008 You'll know for sure ,12 hours after its eaten  Smiley Sad

Honored Contributor
Posts: 32,486
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

@PA Mom-mom wrote:

@Sooner  Sorry, in his work he mainly worked with chemically injected "cured" products. He had very little experience with naturally "cured" (uncured) products. Check the labels for ingredients and cooking directions. 


@PA Mom-mom Well darn!  LOL!!!  I never know whether or not to go for the uncured!  Guess I will have to do more reseach.