How Long Does Cooked Spam Last? Does it Go Bad?

Spam has been around since the 1930s and is a popular meat product that’s particularly common in the United States.

It is made from a mixture of pork, meat, and several preservatives to prevent spoilage.

Spam, much like any other food, will go bad if left exposed to the elements for an extended period of time.

How long does cooked spam last, and does it go bad?

Once it’s been cooked, spam can last in the fridge for up to 7 days as long as it’s properly stored. Keep it covered in an airtight container and refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F or below. If you’ve had it for an extended period, make sure to check for any abnormal smells, texture, or color before consuming it.

What is Cooked Spam?

Spam is a type of processed meat that is popular all over the world. It is composed of pork shoulder meat, ham, salt, water, modified potato starch, and sodium nitrate.

Spam is easy to prepare and has been a popular item for campers and people who are on-the-go for many years.

Individuals can eat cooked spam straight out of the can or incorporate it into various dishes. It can be fried and served with eggs or used to make spam sandwiches or stews.

How Long Does Cooked Spam Last?

Much like any other food item, cooked spam has a shelf life. Once it’s cooked, spam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. However, the shelf life of cooked spam differs depending on various factors such as storage, exposure to air and temperature.

Storage

Proper storage is crucial for the longevity of cooked spam. An airtight container is the best option as it prevents the meat from absorbing flavors from other food in the refrigerator. If the spam is kept in an unsealed container, then it will start to deteriorate within a few days.

Exposure to Air

Exposure to air can cause spam to dry out, which can further affect its taste. It’s essential to store cooked spam in an airtight container to prevent the meat from getting dry and protecting it from bacterial growth.

Temperature

Temperature is another essential factor for preserving cooked spam. It should be kept refrigerated at all times, and it’s critical to ensure that the temperature is set at 40°F or below. If the temperature exceeds 40°F, then there is a higher chance of bacterial growth, leading to foodborne illnesses.

How to Store Cooked Spam Properly

When storing cooked spam, it’s essential to follow some basic guidelines to preserve its flavor and freshness. Here are some tips on how to store cooked spam properly:

Tightly Cover the Spam

The most crucial factor in preserving the freshness and flavor of cooked spam is to keep it tightly sealed. An airtight container is excellent for storing cooked spam as it prevents the meat from absorbing flavors from other food items in the refrigerator.

Keep it in the Fridge

After you cook the Spam, it’s essential to keep it in the fridge. Cooked spam should be stored in the refrigerator at all times to prevent bacterial growth. The temperature should be set at or below 40°F for maximum freshness and longevity.

Keep it Away from Direct Sunlight

Spam should be stored away from direct sunlight as it can cause the meat to spoil more quickly. Keep the container in a darker, cooler part of your fridge to extend its shelf life.

How to Tell if Cooked Spam Has Gone Bad

Even with proper storage, cooked spam can still go bad. Here are some signs that your cooked Spam has gone bad and you should avoid consuming it:

Smell

Cooked Spam has a distinctive smell, and if it starts to smell off, sour, or similar to ammonia, then it has gone bad. Avoid consuming Spam with an off smell.

Texture

If the texture or consistency of the Spam changes to slimy or mushy, then it’s past its prime. Avoid consuming Spam that has changed texture.

Color

Spam is a pinkish color, and if it starts to turn grey or greenish, then it’s a sign that it has gone bad, and it’s not safe to eat.

Conclusion

Cooked Spam has a shelf life of up to 7 days and should be stored in an airtight container at a temperature of 40°F or below. Proper storage, covering the container, and keeping it in the refrigerator can help extend its shelf life. Bacterial growth can cause foodborne illnesses, so always check for signs such as smell, texture, and color to ensure it’s safe to consume.