After you open a deli meat package, the contents will quickly deteriorate and lose freshness. If you don’t intend on using the contents immediately, it’s best to store the deli meats using the correct method and the appropriate storage container. Some containers are better than others and more equipped at maintaining freshness. If you feel overwhelmed at the sheer volume of choices, don’t worry, I’ve done the groundwork, so you don’t have to.
After opening, deli meat should be stored in an airtight container, on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. When stored correctly, and at the right temperature, the deli meat should last two to three days in the refrigerator.
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The best airtight container for storing deli meats
When you store deli meat you need to store it in an airtight container. As with most foods, air will cause your deli meat to spoil faster. For this one, I went with the Prepworks Deli ProKeeper Air Tight Container. There are a few reasons why I chose this specific container. Firstly, the primary goal is to keep air out.
This container features a silicone insulation seal which does exactly that. It gives the container an airtight seal. The container features a grooved bottom that keeps any excess moisture away from the meats and prevents premature spoilage. Another key feature of the container is the dry-erase compatible lid that allows you to write dates and information directly on the lid. These can easily be removed when washing the container.
This container is large enough to hold a fair amount of deli meats with a length of 11.75 inches. The unit is easy to clean and made from sturdy material, which means that it won’t easily break or damage. The thoughtful design includes two hinged lid locks and a silicone seal for an airtight seal. The container is dishwasher-safe and PBA-free.
Keep in mind that it should only be washed on the top rack and should not be used in the microwave as it is not microwave-safe. There may be some issues with the lid as some people find it challenging to open and close the lid.
Key features
- Grooved bottom to keep the meat away from juices and moisture
- Silicone seal lid with two hinges for a tight seal
- Made with high-quality materials
- Dry erase feature on the lid
Benefits
- Airtight seal
- Easy to clean
- Sturdy
- Maintains freshness
Why we love this container
The great thing about this container is the amount of storage capacity it offers. You could use parchment paper to divide different deli meats into the same container.
The best deli meat containers for the fridge
If you’re looking for a container that is relatively priced and is going to keep your deli meats fresh, the Sistema KLIP IT Deli Storer Plus Food Storage Container is a good choice. Firstly, there is no guarantee that the product is airtight, but it does feature easy-locking clips and an extended flexible seal that helps to keep the deli meats inside fresh. Whether they will be fresher for longer is up for debate. The product is made from 100% virgin plastic and is both phthalate- and BPA-free. So no nasty chemicals will seep into your food while in the refrigerator.
You can put it in the freezer. You can microwave the contents without the lid and you can wash it on the top rack in the dishwasher. It’s value for money. These containers come with a removable bottom rack that is great for keeping your meats away from any possible drainage or moisture that may accumulate at the bottom of the container. And, considering the price, the product does not feel or look cheap. In fact, it has quite a sleek design and looks more on the pricier side.
Key features
- Removable tray
- Made with high-quality plastic
- The lid features easy-locking clips and an extended flexible seal
Benefits
- It’s easy to clean
- Leakproof
- Sturdiness
- Durability
Why we love this container
While there is no mention of the fact that these containers are airtight in the description, many of the customers that have purchased the product agree that it does seal airtight. That’s an unexpected bonus! The design is very thoughtful and allows you to stack the product to save space in your refrigerator. And, we’re always happy with extra space.
The best Tupperware deli meat container
For this one, I’m going with the TUPPERWARE Brand Freezer Mates Plus Stackables Set – Three Fridge & Freezer Food Storage Containers. There are a few reasons to love these containers. Firstly, they are freezer-safe, refrigerator-safe, dishwasher-safe, and PBA-free. But, they are not microwave-safe.
Their special feature is that they offer an airtight seal and prevent freezer burn if you ever need to freeze anything in them. Another great feature is that you don’t have to worry about odors from other food in the refrigerator making their way into the container and onto your deli meat. The product is made with durable freeze-quality plastic.
The only problem with these containers is that there are three containers and only one lid. The concept is that these containers are stackable and that only the top container requires a lid. The issue then is that you can’t seal the items individually, you’ll need to stack them in order to gain full use. The good news is that if you have different deli meats that you would like to store, these containers are perfect.
Key features
- Airtight seal and frost-free features
- Made with high-quality plastic
- Space-saving design
Benefits
- It’s easy to clean
- Durability
- Keeps odors at bay
- Tight fitting seal
Why we love this container
Tupperware always lives up to its name. This product does exactly what it is meant to do. If you plan to store more than one type of deli meat at a time, this Tupperware container is the ideal solution. It saves space, is durable, and can double as a freezer-safe container. But the best part about Tupperware products is their durability and the fact that they really do last a very long time.
The best stackable deli meat container
The MEPAL’s MODULA 3-piece meat box set is the ideal stackable deli meat container set. There are three containers and one lid on the set. The containers are made from Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and are approximately one inch in height each. The product is very sturdy and durable.
There is a drawback to these containers. The description states that the containers are airtight. The top container with the lid may be airtight but the bottom two containers simply stack on top of each other. They may come apart fairly easily and are not airtight.
If you plan to put the container set in the refrigerator immediately and only take it out when removing deli meat, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem. However, some reviewers feel that traveling with these containers might not be such a great idea, due to the fact that they don’t seal the bottom two containers properly. But this view isn’t shared by everyone.
Key features
- Stylish design
- Space-saving design
- Stackable
Benefits
- It’s easy to clean
- Dishwasher safe
- Sturdy material
- Tight-fitting seal on the top container
Why we love this container
These containers are very convenient for storing different types of deli meats. Despite what most reviewers may think, the bottom containers have a snug fit and won’t easily come apart when moving the containers in and out of the refrigerator. Overall, the design is sleek and stylish.
The best Rubbermaid deli meat container
The Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Container is the top-rated deli meat storage container. The BPA-free Tritan lids and bases feature 360-degree clarity and an airtight seal thanks to the two secure latches on either side of the container. In case you need to use the container to microwave any food items, it also features built-in vents that prevent splatter.
The size of the container means that you can store large quantities of deli meat and be assured that your food item won’t go bad or pick up any odors from the refrigerator, thanks to its airtight seal. These containers are stain-resistant, leakproof, odor resistant, and great at saving space. Rubbermaid makes some of the best products on the market and they definitely deliver with this product.
Key features
- Built-in air vents for no splatter microwaving
- Space-saving design
- Stackable
- 360-degree easy viewing
Benefits
- It’s easy to clean
- Portable
- Leakproof
- Tight-fitting seal
- Dishwasher safe
- Excellent airtight seal
Why we love this container
This brand outdoes itself in terms of quality and value for money. This product is beautiful, easy to hold, and easy to use. The price makes this a steal when considering what it can do. Excellent buy. Another great thing about these containers is that they are not limited to food storage. Their size makes them ideal for storing other items as well. For example, some customers use them to store cigars due to their airtight seal.
The most common questions about storing deli meat answered
What’s the best way to store unopened deli meat?
Unopened deli meat can be stored in the wrapping that it came in. Store the deli meat in the refrigerator at 40 °F or less. Unopened deli meat should last for about seven to ten days after the expiration date.
What’s the best way to store opened deli meat?
Opened deli meat should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the deli meat on the bottom shelf. Cold air in the refrigerator sinks. The best place to keep deli meat is the bottom shelf in the back.
How long does deli meat last in a container?
It should last approximately three to five days after being opened in an airtight container.
