Can Deer Summer Sausage Go Bad : What You MUST Know

While it’s tempting to store it in the pantry, the shelf life of deer summer sausage isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Factors like storage conditions, packaging, and even whether it’s been opened or not can affect its longevity. Let’s dive into all you need to know about deer summer sausage’s shelf life, signs of spoilage, and the best storage practices to keep it fresh for as long as possible.

Can Deer Summer Sausage Go Bad?

Yes, like any food, deer summer sausage can indeed go bad. However, its unique production process-where it’s cured, smoked, and dried-does help extend its shelf life. Still, even with these preservation methods, the sausage will eventually degrade due to factors like exposure to air, moisture, and bacteria.

Several elements influence how long your deer summer sausage lasts:

• Type of Sausage: Dry-cured sausages like summer sausage last longer than fresh sausages. But even within dry-cured options, the recipe and production process can vary.
• Storage Conditions: If stored improperly, even the best summer sausage can go from tasty to toxic in a surprisingly short time.
• Packaging: Sausage that’s vacuum-sealed will have a significantly longer shelf life compared to one wrapped in butcher paper.

So, while deer summer sausage might last a while due to its preservation methods, it will not last indefinitely. It’s essential to understand how to spot spoilage signs and how to store it properly to make sure you get the most out of it.

Shelf Life For Deer Summer Sausage

The shelf life of deer summer sausage can vary depending on whether it’s unopened or opened, and on how it’s stored. Let’s break it down:

• Unopened, Vacuum-Sealed Summer Sausage

  • Refrigerated: Typically lasts 4-6 months in the fridge, as long as it’s stored properly and kept sealed.
  • Frozen: Can last up to a year if frozen, though you should try to consume it within 6 months for the best quality.

• Opened Summer Sausage

  • Refrigerated: Once opened, it’s best to consume deer summer sausage within 3-4 weeks. This is due to the exposure to air, which can speed up the deterioration process.
  • Frozen: If you’ve opened the sausage and want to extend its life, freezing it is an option. However, freezing can slightly affect the texture and flavor, so it’s recommended to consume it within 2-3 months after freezing.

Common Signs Of Spoilage

Spoiling deer summer sausage can sometimes be a subtle process, so it’s important to look for visual, smell, and texture changes. Here are some of the most common signs that indicate your sausage is no longer safe to eat:

• Smell

  • A sour, rancid, or off-putting odor is one of the clearest indicators that your deer summer sausage has gone bad. The typical smoky, salty aroma should be fresh and pleasant, so if it starts to smell “off”, trust your nose and discard it.

• Discoloration

  • A slight change in color can occur over time as the sausage ages, but if you notice dark spots, mold, or an abnormal change in color (such as turning a grayish or greenish hue), it’s a definite sign that your sausage has spoiled.

• Texture

  • Fresh deer summer sausage should be firm but not overly dry. If it becomes slimy, sticky, or excessively dry, it’s likely gone bad. The texture may change due to bacterial growth, and this can make the sausage unsafe to eat.

• Mold

  • Sometimes, if summer sausage is exposed to too much moisture or stored improperly, mold can begin to form on the surface. If mold is present, it’s best to discard the sausage entirely. Unlike some cheeses, mold on meat can be dangerous, so don’t just scrape it off.

• Taste

  • If everything else seems normal, but the sausage tastes off or sour, this is a definite sign of spoilage. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.

How To Store Deer Summer Sausage?

Storing deer summer sausage properly is the key to extending its shelf life and ensuring it stays as fresh as possible. Let’s go over the most effective ways to store it:

Keep It In The Fridge

• If you plan on consuming the sausage in the near future, the refrigerator is your best bet.
• Make sure it’s tightly wrapped in butcher paper, plastic wrap, or an airtight container. For vacuum-sealed sausages, simply leave them in their original packaging until you’re ready to eat.
• Keep it away from direct moisture and heat sources, which can accelerate spoilage.

Freezing For Long-term Storage

• For longer storage, freezing is a great option.
• Slice the sausage into smaller portions before freezing, so you can thaw just what you need.
• Wrap the sausage tightly in plastic wrap or foil, followed by a layer of freezer-safe plastic or a vacuum-seal bag to avoid freezer burn.
• It’s also a good idea to label it with the date to ensure you consume it within the recommended 2-3 months.

Avoid The Pantry

• Even though summer sausage is cured, storing it in a cool, dry pantry isn’t the best option once it’s been opened. While unopened vacuum-sealed summer sausage may last in the pantry for a bit, once opened, it’s better to refrigerate or freeze it to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage.

Use Airtight Containers

• If you don’t have a vacuum-sealed package, an airtight container or resealable plastic bag will help minimize air exposure and prevent the sausage from drying out too quickly.

Expert Tips

• Vacuum-seal it yourself: If you’ve purchased a non-vacuum-sealed summer sausage and want to extend its shelf life, consider investing in a vacuum sealer. This will help preserve the sausage by eliminating excess air.
• Check the sell-by date: Always be mindful of the expiration or sell-by dates on packaging, but also trust your senses. If it looks, smells, or feels off, don’t take the risk of eating it.
• Rotate your stock: If you buy deer summer sausage in bulk, use the “first in, first out” rule-consume the oldest sausages first to ensure you’re always eating the freshest ones.
• Consider curing at home: If you’re a fan of DIY projects, consider curing your own venison into summer sausage at home. This allows you to control ingredients and shelf-life expectations, and it can be a fun, rewarding experience.

FAQs

How Long Can Deer Summer Sausage Be Stored Before It Goes Bad?

Deer summer sausage can typically be stored for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator once opened, or up to 6 months if kept frozen. The shelf life largely depends on storage conditions and whether the sausage is vacuum-sealed or not.

What Are The Signs That Deer Summer Sausage Has Gone Bad?

Signs that deer summer sausage has gone bad include a sour or rancid smell, slimy or discolored texture, or mold growth on the surface. If the sausage has an off-putting odor or unusual texture, it should be discarded.

Can Deer Summer Sausage Go Bad Even If It’s Unopened?

Yes, even unopened deer summer sausage can go bad over time. While vacuum-sealed summer sausage can last several months in the pantry, it should still be consumed within the use-by or sell-by date on the package. After opening, it should be refrigerated.

How Can I Tell If Deer Summer Sausage Is Safe To Eat After Being In The Fridge For A While?

To check if deer summer sausage is safe to eat after being stored in the fridge, look for changes in smell, texture, or color. If the sausage has an off smell, is excessively dry or slimy, or has visible mold, it should be discarded.

What Is The Best Way To Store Deer Summer Sausage To Prevent It From Going Bad?

The best way to store deer summer sausage is to keep it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed packaging. Store it in the refrigerator if it has been opened or is fresh, and keep unopened sausage in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, freeze the sausage.

Can I Freeze Deer Summer Sausage To Extend Its Shelf Life?

Yes, freezing deer summer sausage can extend its shelf life. Properly wrapped and vacuum-sealed, it can last up to 6 months in the freezer without significant loss in quality. However, the texture may change slightly after thawing.

What Happens If I Eat Deer Summer Sausage That Has Gone Bad?

Eating deer summer sausage that has gone bad can lead to foodborne illnesses, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It’s important to discard sausage that shows signs of spoilage to avoid these risks.

Can Deer Summer Sausage Spoil If Left Out At Room Temperature?

Yes, leaving deer summer sausage out at room temperature for extended periods (more than 2 hours) can cause it to spoil quickly. Bacteria can grow, leading to the risk of foodborne illness. It’s best to store the sausage in the refrigerator.

Does The Type Of Casing Affect How Long Deer Summer Sausage Lasts?

Yes, the type of casing can impact the shelf life of deer summer sausage. Sausages with natural casings tend to have a shorter shelf life compared to those with synthetic casings, which provide a more effective seal and protect against spoilage.

How Can I Tell If My Homemade Deer Summer Sausage Has Gone Bad?

For homemade deer summer sausage, the signs of spoilage are similar to commercially made sausage: an off or sour odor, slimy texture, discoloration, or mold growth. Since homemade sausages may lack preservatives, they may spoil more quickly, so always store them properly in the fridge.