Quick Answer
Field Roast sausages typically last 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator after opening. An unopened package will last around 2-3 months in the fridge. The expiry date printed on the packaging indicates how long Field Roast sausages will maintain best quality when properly stored.
How to tell if Field Roast sausages are bad
There are a few signs that indicate Field Roast sausages have gone bad:
- Slimy texture
- Sour smell
- Mold growth
- Discoloration (gray, green, or black spots)
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discard the sausages. As Field Roast sausages are plant-based and do not contain raw meat, they are not at high risk for making you sick if accidentally consumed past the use-by date. However, the taste and texture will become noticeably inferior.
Freezer Storage
Properly stored in the freezer, unopened Field Roast sausages will last much longer – around 2-3 months past the printed date. Make sure to wrap the sausages tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Once thawed, Field Roast sausages will keep for an additional 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Do not refreeze sausages after thawing.
Freeze sausages in original packaging
For best quality, freeze Field Roast sausages in their original packaging. The packaging helps protect the sausages from exposure to air and prevents freezer burn. Simply place the unopened package in the freezer.
Re-wrap sausages for long term freezing
If you want to freeze Field Roast sausages for more than 2-3 months, consider re-wrapping the sausages prior to freezing for added protection. Remove the sausages from the original package and tightly wrap each sausage in plastic wrap or place in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. This provides an extra barrier against freezer burn over extended freezing times.
Thaw safely in the refrigerator
Always thaw frozen Field Roast sausages gradually in the refrigerator. Place the sausages on a plate or in a container to catch any juices that may drip as they thaw. Avoid thawing at room temperature or in warm water, as this encourages bacterial growth. Once thawed, use within 3-5 days.
Refrigerator Storage
An opened package of Field Roast sausages will last around 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. Make sure to tightly rewrap or close the package after each use. The sausages will maintain best quality when stored towards the back of the fridge, where temperatures are colder.
Check expiration date
Always check the “best by” or “use by” date printed on the Field Roast sausage packaging before consumption. This date indicates the timeframe when the sausages are at peak freshness and flavor.
Monitor for spoilage
Inspect Field Roast sausages prior to eating them if they are close to or just past the expiry date. Look for any mold, sliminess, or off odors, and discard if detected. Sausage that looks and smells normal may be safe for consumption after the expiry date, though quality declines over time.
Use within 3-5 days after opening
Once opened, Field Roast sausages will keep for 3-5 days in the fridge in their original packaging. If you don’t think you will consume them within that timeframe, consider freezing the remaining sausages for later use. Tightly rewrap or close the opened package and store towards the back of the refrigerator.
Shelf Life of Field Roast Sausage Varieties
Field Roast makes several different types of vegetarian sausages. Here is how long some of their most popular sausage varieties last:
Field Roast Frankfurters
- Unopened: 2-3 months in refrigerator, 2-3 months in freezer
- After opening: 1-2 weeks in refrigerator
These hot dog-style sausages contain wheat protein and vegetables like eggplant, celery, and cabbage. They come packaged in 4-packs.
Field Roast Apple Maple Breakfast Sausages
- Unopened: 2-3 months in refrigerator, 2-3 months in freezer
- After opening: 1-2 weeks in refrigerator
With apples, maple syrup, and sage, these breakfast links have a sweet and savory flavor. They are sold in packs of 4.
Field Roast Lentil Sage Quarter Pounders
- Unopened: 2-3 months in refrigerator, 2-3 months in freezer
- After opening: 1-2 weeks in refrigerator
These quarter-pound sausage patties are made with lentils, brown rice, and a blend of herbs and spices. Packs contain 4 quarter pound patties.
Field Roast Mexican Chipotle Sausages
- Unopened: 2-3 months in refrigerator, 2-3 months in freezer
- After opening: 1-2 weeks in refrigerator
With a kick of smoky chipotle flavor, these sausages contain cilantro, chili peppers, and tomatillo. They are sold in packs of 4 links.
How to store Field Roast sausages
Field Roast sausages stay fresh longer when stored properly. Here are some tips for storage:
Refrigeration
– Keep Field Roast sausages in their original packaging until ready to use.
– Store unopened packages on a shelf toward the back of the refrigerator, where temperatures are coldest.
– Place opened sausages on a plate covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
– Avoid storing Field Roast sausages in the refrigerator door, where temperatures fluctuate.
Freezing
– Double wrap sausages in plastic wrap or place in airtight bags when freezing for more than 2-3 months.
– Remove as much air as possible prior to sealing freezer bags.
– Use frozen sausages within 2-3 months for best quality.
Thawing
– Thaw frozen sausages gradually in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.
– Place on a plate or in a container to catch any drips during thawing.
– Use within 3-5 days after thawing. Do not refreeze.
How to use up Field Roast sausages close to expiration
If your Field Roast sausages are nearing the end of their shelf life, you don’t have to waste them. Here are some delicious ways to use them up:
Sausage skillet meals
Chop and add Field Roast sausages to veggie-loaded skillets. Saute with peppers, onions, kale, sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts for easy one-pan meals. The sausages add great flavor and protein.
Sausage pasta dishes
Slice Field Roast sausages and add to pasta with tomato sauce, spinach, white beans, and seasonings for tasty sausage pasta. You can also crumble and brown the sausages to add meaty texture to veggie-packed pasta bakes.
Sausage sandwiches
Grilled Field Roast sausages make excellent sandwiches layered with saut??ed peppers and onions, spinach, avocado, hummus, or chili. Serve in a roll or wrap.
Sausage pizza
Crumble and sprinkle Field Roast Italian or breakfast-style sausages over homemade or store-bought pizza. The browned sausage adds tons of flavor.
Sausage scrambles
Add diced Field Roast sausages to make any egg scramble heartier. The pieces add great flavor to scrambles with veggies like spinach, tomatoes, and peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat Field Roast sausages after expiration date?
It’s generally safe to eat Field Roast sausages past their expiration date, provided they have been stored properly and there are no signs of spoilage. Look for off odors, color changes, or slimy texture before consuming expired sausages. The taste and texture quality will slowly decline after the expiry date.
How can you tell if Field Roast sausages are bad?
Signs that Field Roast sausages have gone bad include mold growth, foul odors, slimy texture, and unusual coloring. Gray, green, or black discoloration indicates spoilage. Trust your senses – if sausages smell or look off, err on the side of caution and throw them away.
Why do Field Roast sausages expire so quickly?
Field Roast uses natural preservatives in their vegetarian sausages, so they tend to have a shorter shelf life compared to meat-based sausages with chemical preservatives. Refrigerating sausages after opening and freezing for longer term storage helps extend the shelf life. But in general, expect Field Roast sausages to last about 1-2 weeks after opening.
Can you freeze Field Roast sausages after opening?
Yes, you can safely freeze Field Roast sausages after opening the package, provided they have been continuously refrigerated and are not expired. To freeze, tightly wrap each sausage in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and remove air. Frozen sausages maintain quality for 2-3 months past the printed date.
How can you make Field Roast sausages last longer?
Proper storage is key to maximizing the shelf life of Field Roast sausages:
– Refrigerate unopened packs on a shelf toward the back of the fridge.
– Place opened sausages in an airtight container or wrap tightly in the refrigerator.
– Freeze sausages for longer term storage, up to 2-3 months.
– Double wrap sausages before freezing for more than 1-2 months.
– Thaw frozen sausages slowly in the fridge, not at room temperature.
Summary
Field Roast makes a variety of vegetarian and vegan sausages that typically last 1-2 weeks when opened and refrigerated. Unopened, they stay fresh for 2-3 months in the fridge or freezer. Check for spoilage signs like smell, texture, and color before eating sausage past the printed expiry date. With proper storage and handling, Field Roast sausages can be safely enjoyed right up until their expiration!
