Expiration & Storage Tips
When does hot italian sausage expire?
Unopened hot Italian sausage can last in the fridge for two to three weeks if it is fresh and has a 'sell by' date, and about a week past the 'sell by' date if it is cured. Once opened, it should be eaten within one week. If frozen, it can last two to three months.
How do you tell if hot italian sausage is bad?
Check for a sour smell, a slimy texture, or a change in color. Good sausage will be pinkish in color and have a fresh smell. If your sausage has a big greyish circle around it, throw it away. Sausages also become hard and shrink as they go bad.
Tips for storing hot italian sausage to extend shelf life
• Keep the sausage in its original packaging until ready to use
• Once opened, rewrap any unused sausage tightly in cling wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator
• If you plan on freezing the sausage, wrap in freezer-safe plastic and seal tightly. To defrost, leave it in the refrigerator overnight.