Yes, you can freeze deli meat. In fact, any deli meat can be safely frozen for up to two months. This includes both cooked and uncooked deli meats, as well as lunch meats, cold cuts, and cured meats.
How to Freeze Deli Meat
When freezing deli meat, it is critical to do so properly to ensure that it is safe to eat. Now, we’ll look at how to store unopened pre-packaged deli meat in the freezer.
Then we’ll look at how to safely freeze lunch meat that has already been opened. Chicken, ham, and turkey, for example, have a higher water content than cured meats, making them more vulnerable to freezer burn.
Tips to Freeze Unopened Pre-packaged Deli Meat
Pre-packaged deli meat can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. Follow these tips to do it properly.
Freeze with original packaging: The best way to freeze pre-packaged deli meat is in its original packaging. If the packaging is not freezer-safe, you can wrap it tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer paper.
Labeling the bags: It is important to label all packages of frozen deli meat with the date that they were frozen. This will help you keep track of how long the meat has been in the freezer and ensure that it is used within the recommended timeframe.
Place the meat in the coldest part of the freezer: Deli meat should be placed in the coldest part of the freezer, which is typically near the back or bottom. This will help to keep the meat frozen for as long as possible.
Tips to Freeze Already Opened Deli Meat
If you have already opened the deli meat, you can still freeze it. Here are some tips:
Wrap the meat: Wrap the deli meat tightly in plastic wrap. Make sure that there is no air exposure as this will cause freezer burn. Put the wrapped deli meat in a freezer bag. Again, make sure that the bag is airtight.
Labeling the freezer bag: Label the freezer bag with the date and contents. This will help you keep track of when you need to use it up.
Squeeze the air out of the bag: Before sealing the freezer bag, squeeze out as much air as possible. This will help to prevent freezer burn. Seal the bag and place it in the coldest part of the freezer.
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Tips to Defrost Deli Meat
When you are ready to use the frozen deli meat, it is important to defrost it properly. Deli meat should never be thawed at room temperature as this can cause bacteria to grow.
- The best way to thaw deli meat is in the refrigerator. Place the frozen meat on a plate or in a container and put it in the fridge. It will take several hours for the meat to thaw completely.
- Once the meat is thawed, it can be stored in the fridge for up to three days before it needs to be used. If you are not going to use it within that time frame, you can refreeze it.
- Frozen deli meat can also be thawed using cold water. Put the frozen meat in a resealable bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the meat is thawed. Once thawed, cook the meat immediately.
NB: Deli meat that has been defrosted will only survive around 2 days if kept in the refrigerator and wrapped when not in use.
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Steps to Prevent Your Deli Meat From Going Bad
If you follow the steps you can prevent your deli meat from going bad very soon and have it whenever you want.
Store It Properly
The best way to prevent your deli meat from going bad is to store it properly. Deli meat should be stored in the fridge and used within three days of opening. If you are not going to use it within that time frame, you can freeze it for up to two months.
When freezing deli meat, make sure to do so properly by using airtight packaging and labeling the package with the date.
Don’t Leave It Out at Room Temperature
Deli meat should never be left out at room temperature for more than two hours as this can cause bacteria to grow. If the meat has been left out for longer than two hours, it should be thrown away.
Thawing Properly
When thawing deli meat, it is important to do so properly. Deli meat should never be thawed at room temperature as this can cause bacteria to grow.
The best way to thaw deli meat is in the refrigerator. Place the frozen meat on a plate or in a container and put it in the fridge. It will take several hours for the meat to thaw completely.
Wash the Hands Thoroughly
It is important to wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling deli meat. This will help to prevent the spread of bacteria. Washing your hands properly includes using soap and water and scrubbing for at least 20 seconds.
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Conclusion
Deli meat can be frozen to avoid moisture and flavor loss and to prevent hazardous bacterial growth.
If you follow the procedures correctly, you’ll be able to take advantage of having wonderful deli meats on hand at all times to add a layer of salty, smoky, meaty flavor to your meals.
