Meat
How long does a canned ham marked keep refrigerated last?
A canned ham labeled “keep refrigerated” holds 6–9 months unopened in the fridge, and USDA says don’t freeze it — so plan a meal rather than a stash.
How long does it keep?
| Fridge, from purchase | 6–9 months |
|---|---|
| Freezer | Not recommended |
Can it sit out?
A keep-refrigerated canned ham is perishable — the FSIS 2-hour rule applies.
Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).
How to tell if a keep-refrigerated canned ham has gone bad
- A can that bulges, leaks, or is dented along a seam
- A hiss or spurt of pressure as the lid comes off
- Meat that smells sour, or feels slimy rather than firm
When in doubt, throw it out.
It has been refrigerated since the store — leaving it in the pantry because it is a can is the one mistake to avoid.
Quick answers
How long does a canned ham marked keep refrigerated last?
A canned ham labeled “keep refrigerated” holds 6–9 months unopened in the fridge, and USDA says don’t freeze it — so plan a meal rather than a stash.
Can you freeze a keep-refrigerated canned ham?
USDA lists freezing as “Not recommended” for a keep-refrigerated canned ham.
How long can a keep-refrigerated canned ham sit out?
The FSIS 2-hour rule applies to a keep-refrigerated canned ham. Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).