Ham-How Long In Fridge?

[scuzzo]

So how long do you think a cooked ham can be kept in the fridge?

[scuzzo]

Just to be safe I simmered it in my crockpot with lots of bay leaf and some star anise just for fun, and it was good, plus I cooked off a lot of the fat. And I lived to tell about it.

[marcharry]

The ham is cooked and smoked. Like many foods - it may be spoiled but I don't think that its going to hurt you. Its a matter of taste - blue cheese - mouldy, right?

I am not an expert though, maybe it develops pathogens.

[Non Cognomina]

Is this ham cured or boiled? Whole or cut?

[scuzzo]

Cured, spiral sliced.

[Non Cognomina]

According to the Feds, 3-7 days, depending on the ham specifics.

http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~fsg/f01chart...

Of course, I always go by the smell test. If it smells funky, through it out. I've had a ham last 2 or more weeks before the funk smell came around.

[scuzzo]

I bought a ham right after Christmas, and it got shove to the back of the fridge. It smells just fine! Something like pepperoni seems to keep forever...

What if I heat it thoroughly in the Crock Pot before eating?

[Non Cognomina]

I wouldn't advise it. I'd say it's an "eat at your own risk" item after that long.

[wawajb]

I'm suprised it hasn't dried out by now.

For the record I almost always take the risk on borderline things like that. Ham in particular...as long as your fridge is properly cold...I'd eat it after heating. But do so at your own risk.