can you freeze deli meat?

[Anonymous]

I bought a 3-pack of prepackaged deli meat at BJs. I forgot to check the expiration date and when I got home I realized it expires in two weeks and we won't eat all of it before then. I think I'm going to freeze one or two packs but I wanted to see if anyone knows if that is a really bad idea.

[Anonymous]

I think the texture would seriously erode after thawing given the additional water added to deli meat for processing. I'd just find other uses for it -- add ham to casseroles or eggs, add turkey to salads, etc.

[Anonymous]

My in-laws do it. Please don't, it's freaking revolting when thawed. You can eat it, but seriously. It's gross.

In their defense (partially), they live part of the year in a place where getting to a full-service grocery is a huge production so they do major runs to Costco every couple of months and freeze almost everything. I just draw the line at deli meat and end up eating a LOT of cheese sandwiches. Which, thankfully, they don't freeze.

[Anonymous]

If the package is still air tight/sealed then it's ok. Sometimes if deli type meat is on sale I'll buy a few and throw one in the freezer. They do taste fine once thawed.

[Anonymous]

Thanks everyone. I think I'm just going to eat as many turkey sandwiches as I can stand and if there's anything left I'll throw it in the freezer and see what happens.

[Anonymous]

I freeze Applegate organiC deli meat all the time. It thaws just fine.

[Anonymous]

Yes you can. Not a problem.

[Anonymous]

I just bought some and it says use or freeze by x date...so I think it's no prob. Maybe the fresher sliced stuff doesn't freeze as well.