Is an unrefrigerated canned ham safe to eat?
I just cooked a canned ham for my family. It was fully cooked, and I reheated it well. The problem is that we ate it and then I realized it was supposed to be refrigerated. I had kept it on the shelf. I thought the label meant it should be refrigerated after opening. What is the likelihood that we will all get sick from this? I didn't see or smell anything unusual about the canned ham, and I keep my home pretty cold. I think I have had the ham on the shelf in the pantry for approximately 1-2 months, give or take. Help?
Best Answer
If the words "Keep Refrigerated" are on the label, and the ham was kept on the shelf for weeks or months, the only answer I can responsibly give is that you should call poison control: 1-800-222-1222 in the USA. If you're not in the USA, Google "Poison Control (your location)" or call a medical professional. Since you've already eaten it and we can't assure you that it was safe, it has become a medical issue - not a culinary one. We are not qualified to answer medical questions.
Canned hams labeled “keep refrigerated” require refrigeration and, unopened, will keep 6 to 9 months in the refrigerator. Processed at a time and temperature sufficient to kill infectious organisms (including Trichinae); however the ham is not sterilized so spoilage bacteria may grow. - USDA
Pictures about "Is an unrefrigerated canned ham safe to eat?"
Quick Answer about "Is an unrefrigerated canned ham safe to eat?"
These hams are generally not over 3 pounds in size. They have been processed to kill all spoilage bacteria and pathogenic organisms Canned hams purchased refrigerated and bearing the "Keep Refrigerated" designation on the label are not safe to store at room temperature, and they must be stored in the refrigerator.Do canned hams have to be refrigerated?
A canned ham should not be frozen. Shelf-stable canned hams do not require refrigeration and may be stored in a cool, dry place for 2 to 5 years. Country style hams are dry-cured with salt and aged for distinctive flavor; some are also smoked. Unopened country style hams can be kept up to 1 year without refrigeration.How long can ham sit out unrefrigerated?
Do not leave the ham at room temperature for more than two hours. If it is not going to be used within four days of cooking, it should be frozen. Uncooked or cooked ham can be stored safely in a refrigerator at 40\xb0F or lower for several days.Are Hormel canned ham shelf-stable?
Shelf-stable canned hams can be stored in the pantry at room temperature for up to two years. Canned hams that are labeled "Keep Refrigerated" are not safe stored in the pantry. Refrigerate them immediately and store in the refrigerator no longer than six to nine months.Does Dak canned ham need to be refrigerated?
Prepare a quick and delicious meal with this Dak Canned Ham. This packaged food is fully cooked and does not need to be refrigerated until opened.Here's The Truth About Canned Ham
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Luna Lovegood, cottonbro, cottonbro, Maria Orlova