Sausages and cold cuts are convenient, and a little care keeps them tasting their best until the last slice.
Keep them cold
Store sausages and cold cuts in the refrigerator at 4°C (40°F) or lower, and put them away as soon as you get home (Health Canada, safe food storage).
Know the timelines
- Deli meats, unopened: about 2 weeks in the fridge.
- Deli meats, opened: 3 to 5 days in the fridge.
- Hot dogs and wieners, unopened: about 2 weeks in the fridge.
- Hot dogs and wieners, opened: about 1 week in the fridge.
- Both can be frozen for 1 to 2 months.
Always follow the date on the package if it is shorter.
Wrap well
- Reseal the original package or move slices to an airtight container.
- Use clean tongs or a fork instead of fingers when serving.
- Freeze in small portions so you only thaw what you need.
- Thaw in the refrigerator, not on the counter.
Serve safely
Heat hot dogs and wieners until steaming hot, or 74°C (165°F). Do not leave platters out for more than two hours (Health Canada, leftovers). Pregnant people should heat non-dried deli meats until steaming hot (Health Canada).
