Hickory Farms is a popular gift box company that offers a variety of options for different occasions. From cheese to meats, dressings to wines, they have something for everyone.
However, if you’ve purchased a gift box, you might wonder whether or not it needs to be refrigerated. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on the contents of the gift box.
In this article, we’ll go over the different products that can be found in a Hickory Farms gift box, their shelf life, and whether or not they require refrigeration.
Table of Contents
Does Hickory Farms Cheese and Meat Need to Be Refrigerated?
Unopened Products: No Refrigeration Needed
In general, unopened meat and cheese products from Hickory Farms do not require refrigeration. The shelf life of these products can vary depending on their type, but you can always find the expiration date on the packaging.
This means that you can store them at room temperature until you’re ready to enjoy them.
After Opening: Always Refrigerate
Once you’ve opened a Hickory Farms meat or cheese product, it’s important to refrigerate it. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses.
Plus, keeping them cold can help to maintain their texture, flavor, and overall quality.
Refrigeration Recommendations from Hickory Farms
While some Hickory Farms products don’t need to be refrigerated, the company recommends refrigeration for some of their items to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
For example, their beef and turkey summer sausages should be stored in the refrigerator after opening. The same goes for their cheeses, such as the cheddar and Swiss varieties.
Hickory Farms Products: Shelf Life and Storage Recommendations
Summer Sausages: Shelf-Stable and Long-Lasting
Summer sausages from Hickory Farms are shelf-stable, which means that you don’t have to refrigerate them if you haven’t opened the package. They can last for multiple months at room temperature.
According to the USDA, the recommended shelf life for summer sausage is about three months. However, Hickory Farms states that their beef and turkey summer sausages can last up to nine months before opening.
Once opened, you can keep the summer sausage in the fridge for about three weeks.
Cheeses: Up to a Year Before Opening
Hickory Farms cheese products can last up to a year before opening, according to the company. However, once you’ve opened the package, refrigerate the cheese to prevent spoilage. The length of time that you can keep cheese in the fridge will depend on the type of cheese.
Hickory Farms provides detailed information about the shelf life and recommended storage for each product on its packaging, so be sure to check the label.
Shelf-Stable Products: Room Temperature is Fine
If a Hickory Farms product is marked as “shelf-stable,” it means that it can be stored at room temperature without refrigeration.
However, if you keep the product in a hot and humid environment, it may spoil more quickly.
To ensure maximum freshness and flavor, Hickory Farms recommends storing products in the fridge, even if refrigeration is not strictly necessary.
>>Also read: Where Is Jimmy Dean Sausage Made
FAQ about Hickory Farms Summer Sausage
What is Hickory Farms Summer Sausage made of?
Hickory Farms Summer Sausage is made of beef and pork, along with a blend of spices and seasonings. The sausage is slow-cooked and naturally smoked over hardwood chips for a delicious, smoky flavor.
How should I store Hickory Farms Summer Sausage?
It’s best to store Hickory Farms Summer Sausage in the refrigerator, either wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. If you plan to store it for an extended period, you can also freeze it for up to three months.
How long does Hickory Farms Summer Sausage last?
Unopened, Hickory Farms Summer Sausage can last for up to six weeks in the refrigerator. Once opened, it’s best to consume the sausage within a week. If you freeze the sausage, it can last for up to three months.
How should I serve Hickory Farms Summer Sausage?
Hickory Farms Summer Sausage is a versatile snack that can be served in a variety of ways.
You can slice it and serve it with crackers and cheese, chop it up and add it to a salad, or even use it as a pizza topping. It’s a delicious addition to any charcuterie board or party platter.
Is Hickory Farms Summer Sausage gluten-free?
Yes, Hickory Farms Summer Sausage is gluten-free, making it a great snack option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Is Hickory Farms Summer Sausage spicy?
Hickory Farms Summer Sausage is not inherently spicy, but some varieties may contain spices that add a bit of heat.
If you prefer a milder flavor, look for the Original flavor, which has a classic smoky taste without any added spice.
>>Related: Black mold on salami.
In Conclusion,
Whether or not Hickory Farms meat and cheese products need to be refrigerated depends on whether or not they have been opened.
Unopened products can usually be stored at room temperature, while opened products should be refrigerated.
Pay attention to the shelf life of the products and consume them before they expire.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Hickory Farms products stay fresh and delicious.
Fernando is the creator and writer behind the food blog Eating with your Hands. Living and working in cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Berlin, and being married to a Canadian foodie, has given Fernando a passion and interest in food and inspired him to run EWYH.