How to keep your cold cuts fresh and tasty for longer

Slices of cold cuts ending up in the bin again? Unfortunately, it still happens. This can be avoided by ensuring proper storage of ham, tenderloin, or other meaty delights. While it seems straightforward, it’s not enough to just store them in the fridge.

A sandwich with cold cuts is the simplest way to make a quick breakfast or dinner. That’s why we almost always have our favourite meat slices in the fridge. Unfortunately, we often end up buying them in bulk. That’s the first step towards throwing them away. The second? Improper storage.

Not all cold cuts are created equal, and the differences in their ingredients can be significant. You can purchase high-quality ones, but shops also sell those based on MSM (mechanically separated meat) with fillers and enhancers. Therefore, the rule "less but of better quality and from a trusted source" applies in this case. When you buy a cold cut for the first time, check the ingredients. It's best to choose one with low-fat content for cardiovascular issues and overweight. Always check the expiry date, especially when opting for pre-packaged cold cuts.

Even the best cold cuts can spoil quickly if stored improperly, especially during hot weather. When you take them out on a platter, put them back in the fridge as soon as possible to avoid warming. The refrigerator temperature should be sufficiently low. The best range for cold cuts is between 0 and 4 degrees Celsius. However, it’s not enough to just place them in a cool place.

If you buy pre-packaged cold cuts, remove the remaining slices as soon as you open the package. Covered with foil, they quickly become slimy and unappetising as plastic accelerates the spoiling process. Transfer cold cuts to a glass container or wrap them in paper. You can also use our grandmothers' method: place them on a plate and cover them with another plate. Simple and eco-friendly. Any method is better than a plastic package. When you buy cold cuts in slices by weight, you can separate each slice with a sheet of baking paper. This will keep them fresh for longer.