Deli products are a frequent part of the table because in this way the meat stays fresh for a longer time and is really practical for those who often eat sandwiches or add it to various cooked dishes. Most often, deli products are sold cut into thin slices. They can be packaged or bought in bulk, from a piece cut by the butcher’s staff.
We are all aware that these products contain a lot of additives and preservatives, as well as a lot of salt and spices, but still, they can be quite practical for occasional enjoyment. In fact, even the modern meat industry is already replacing those flavor enhancers and focusing on healthier options. In some cases, it also affects the durability of the product. But let’s be honest, with all this knowledge we have today, would we eat food that can stay for weeks in the refrigerator, without changing its taste and appearance? It doesn’t seem like the best idea at a time when we all know enough about healthy food.
On the other hand, there is nothing wrong if deli products are not on your table every day. Because of this, many people are not sure how long to store such products, especially turkey. Poultry products are even more complex, because their shelf life is short, and they become an ideal substrate for salmonella.
If you are looking for some ideal deli shops in Australia where you can buy quality products, Omeio is probably what you are looking for. At the very least, you are assured that all turkey deli products are of the highest quality and can last longer in the fridge. But what else do you need to know about this aspect of nutrition?
How long to keep the sliced turkey in the refrigerator?
If you’ve roasted a turkey for the holidays, you probably know that leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Poultry meat is very complex and often develops salmonella, which can sometimes be fatal if care is not taken.
However, the situation with sliced turkey is quite different. This applies on the condition that you transfer the pieces to a closed food container so that there is no contact with air and reactions with the surrounding products. That way it can stay fresh for weeks.
If the slices are already packed in the factory, before opening them you can store them for months in the refrigerator, that is, until the expiration date. But if the package has already been opened, it is best to eat it within the first week.
What to do with turkey slices that have already been served but not eaten?
We’ve all been in a situation where we bring deli meat to guests, but it’s not eaten and there are a lot of leftovers. Maybe the first thing that comes to your mind is to put these pieces back in the same food container. However, that idea is not a good one, because the food has already been exposed to air and contamination. Keep them in a separate container or plate covered with foil and try to eat them first to avoid spoilage.
Tips for deli turkey and similar products
When you buy pre-sliced and pre-packed deli products, it is usually written in what conditions you should store them. Although you may come across different tips, in general, you should stick to the fact that an unopened package of deli turkey should be refrigerated for as long as it says on the package. Of course, after opening it is a completely different way of storage.
If you don’t have food containers, plastic wraps and foil will help you keep the pieces of turkey fresh as long as possible and make it safe to eat.
If you want to extend the shelf life, especially if you are buying in bulk, then we recommend freezing. However, you should know that even in the freezer, turkey deli slices do not have an unlimited shelf life. The reason for this is freezer burn, which can change the taste, color, and appearance. Sure, frozen meat will be good to eat even after a year in the freezer, but the taste won’t be the same and you probably won’t enjoy it as much.
How to tell if the deli is spoiled?
Like all deli products, turkey spoils easily if left in the refrigerator for too long. Most of the time, the smell is an indication that something is wrong with the meat. Then, the surface of the pieces is slimy and whitish, which means that a surface reaction of contamination is already occurring.
The most important thing is to never taste meat that looks suspicious to you, even if the manufacturer guarantees longevity. Poisoning by spoiled poultry products can be horrible and even life-threatening. We’re sure you don’t want that to happen. Therefore, if your meat is suspicious, rely on visual perception and smell. If something doesn’t seem right, there’s simply no need to take any chances.
Be careful! Do not give this meat to pets or street animals. It is really inhumane to cause health problems to them as well. Instead, throw it in the trash and don’t look back at this product.
Conclusion
The world has a huge food waste problem. Of course, we know that you are not a supporter of it, but when something is wrong, then it is not worth putting yourself at any health risk.
On the contrary, the solution is to buy food in a planned way and try not to open too many products with a short shelf life at once. Buy quantities that you know you will eat, so you don’t end up blowing your money.
The problem of food waste is huge, but only by changing your habits will you contribute to reducing it. This also applies to deli turkey, but also to any other product that spoils easily, and is often part of the inventory in your refrigerator.