Expiration & Storage Tips
When does sausage expire?
Unopened, packaged sausages generally last between 2 to 3 weeks if kept in the refrigerator, or up to 2 months in the freezer. Once opened, try to consume within 7 days. Homemade sausages should be consumed within 3 days when refrigerated, and can last 2 to 3 months if frozen. Compared to the printed date on the package, sausages can be safe to eat 1-2 days past this if kept properly refrigerated and are not showing signs of spoilage.
How do you tell if sausage is bad?
Sausages that have gone bad will often have a strong unpleasant smell, be dull in color, or have a slimy texture. If the sausage appears to have any green or gray mold, this is a sure sign it has spoiled and it should be thrown away. As with all meat products, it is always best to err on the side of caution. If you are unsure, it's better to discard and replace the item.
Tips for storing sausage to extend shelf life
• Keep the sausages in their original packaging until you're ready to use them.
• If you've opened the package but won't use all the sausages, wrap the leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil before returning them to the fridge.
• Freezing sausages extends their shelf-life. If you plan on freezing them, wrap the sausages individually to avoid them sticking together and place in a zip-top bag.
• Allow frozen sausages to defrost in the fridge rather than at room temperature to keep them in a safe temperature range.