How long does pre-packaged lunch meat last?
Pre-packaged lunch meat keeps 2 weeks in the fridge and 1–2 months in the freezer, according to USDA FoodKeeper.
Quick answer
This food spoils quickly and can make you sick if kept too long. If you’re unsure how long it’s been, go with the shorter time, and when in doubt, throw it out.
Storage times by type
| Type | Fridge | Freezer | Pantry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luncheon meat or poultry (pre-packaged) |
|
| — |
| Turkey (pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat) |
|
| — |
| USDA tips: Freezer: Freezing not recommended. | |||
| Ham (pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat) |
|
| — |
| USDA tips: Freezer: Freezing not recommended. | |||
| Salami (pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat) |
|
| — |
| USDA tips: Freezer: Freezing not recommended. | |||
| Chicken (pre-packaged, luncheon/deli meat) |
|
| — |
| USDA tips: Freezer: Freezing not recommended. | |||
Also covers: lunch meat, lunchmeat, luncheon meat, turkey slices, sliced turkey, sliced ham, sliced chicken, salami, roast beef, bologna, roasted turkey, smoked turkey.
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Get early accessThese are general guidelines from the USDA’s FoodKeeper data for food stored at safe temperatures: fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below, freezer at 0°F (−18°C). Freezer times are for best quality; food kept constantly frozen at 0°F stays safe longer. Always check the package and the food itself. When in doubt, throw it out. Shelf Shepherd isn’t affiliated with or endorsed by the USDA.
Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper data. Last reviewed November 5, 2026.