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Meat & Poultry
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Meat & Poultry

How long does cooked ham last?

Pre-cooked sliced or whole ham.

Quick answer
Fridge (40°F / 4°C)
1 week
5-7 days fully cooked refrigerated
Freezer (0°F / -18°C)
2 months
1-2 months — quality declines
After opening
5 days
Sliced ham
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Signs cooked ham has gone bad

  • Slimy surface
  • Sour smell
  • Gray/green color

Storage tips

  • Holiday ham lasts a week — slice and freeze rest
  • Smell test reliable
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Sources & review
Compiled by the BestByDates editorial team. Last reviewed: January 2025. Spotted an error? Let us know.

Disclaimer: Times shown are USDA/FDA-recommended best quality periods, not absolute safety guarantees. Storage conditions, packaging, and food handling all affect actual shelf life. When in doubt, throw it out.