If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether or not spam needs to be refrigerated, you’re not alone. This canned meat product has been a staple in pantries for decades, but figuring out the proper storage techniques can still be a mystery. In this blog post, we will delve into the topic, providing you with the information you need to ensure your spam stays fresh and flavorful. So, let’s dive right in!

Does Spam Need to Be Refrigerated? Proper Storage Explained

Spam, the iconic canned meat product, has been a staple in many households for decades. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying its popularity and versatility. But when it comes to storing spam, there seems to be some confusion. Should you refrigerate it or not? In this article, we will explore the proper storage methods for spam and provide you with all the information you need.

Understanding Spam

Before we dive into the storage details, let’s take a moment to understand what spam is. Spam is a canned meat product made from pork shoulder and ham. It was first introduced by Hormel Foods Corporation in 1937 and quickly gained popularity due to its long shelf life and affordability.

The ingredients of spam include pork with ham, salt, water, modified potato starch (as a binder), sugar, sodium nitrite (as a preservative), and various spices. The mixture is then cooked inside the can during the canning process.

Shelf-Stable Nature of Spam

One of the key reasons why spam became so popular is its shelf-stable nature. Unlike fresh meats that require refrigeration to prevent spoilage, spam can be stored at room temperature without any issues.

This is because spam undergoes a rigorous cooking process during canning that kills off any bacteria or microorganisms that could cause spoilage. Additionally, the high salt content acts as a natural preservative by inhibiting bacterial growth.

Pros of Not Refrigerating Spam:

• No need for refrigerator space: Since spam doesn’t require refrigeration, you can free up valuable fridge space for other perishable items.
• Convenience: Having a can of spam readily available in your pantry means you can whip up a quick meal anytime without the need for thawing or planning ahead.
• Long shelf life: Unopened cans of spam have an impressive shelf life of up to two years, making it a reliable emergency food option.

Cons of Not Refrigerating Spam:

• Potential quality degradation: While spam doesn’t spoil at room temperature, it may experience changes in texture and flavor over time. Storing it in the refrigerator can help maintain its quality for longer.

Refrigerating Spam

While refrigeration is not necessary for unopened cans of spam, there are instances where storing it in the fridge might be beneficial. If you’ve opened a can and only used a portion of the contents, refrigerating the remaining spam is recommended to preserve its freshness.

Once opened, transfer any unused portions into an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. This will prevent exposure to air and moisture, which could lead to faster deterioration. Stored properly in the refrigerator, leftover spam can last for about three to five days.

Tips for Refrigerating Spam:

• Airtight containers: Use containers that seal tightly to prevent odors from other foods from seeping into your leftover spam.
• Date labeling: To keep track of how long your leftover spam has been stored, label the container with the date you opened it.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, while unopened cans of spam do not require refrigeration due to their shelf-stable nature, refrigerating leftovers is recommended to maintain their quality. The decision to refrigerate or not ultimately depends on your personal preference and how quickly you plan to consume the opened can of spam.

So, the next time you stock up on spam, feel free to store those unopened cans in your pantry. But once opened, make sure to transfer any leftovers into the refrigerator for optimal freshness. Enjoy your delicious spam creations without worrying about spoilage!