Preserve your Iberian ham as an expert: avoid these errors

Ibérico ham is a gastronomic jewel, and like any exceptional product, it deserves special care. Whether it's a whole piece or vacuum-packed slices, poor storage can affect its flavour, texture… and your investment!

Here we explain how to store it properly and the mistakes you must avoid at all costs.


🧂 1. Common mistake: Putting it in the fridge without thinking

✅ Recommendation:

  • If it’s a whole, unopened piece, never refrigerate it. Store it in a cool, dry and ventilated place, between 15 °C and 20 °C.

  • If it’s sliced and vacuum-packed, then yes: store it in the least cold area of the fridge (7–10 °C).

⚠️ Excessive cold dries out the fat and alters its natural aroma.


🔪 2. Mistake: Not covering the cut surface properly

✅ Recommendation:

  • After slicing, cover the exposed area with slices of its own white fat or a clean cotton cloth.

  • Then place a breathable cloth on top (no plastic wrap!).

❌ Oxygen is the enemy of ham: if it dries out, it loses flavour and oxidises.


☀️ 3. Mistake: Exposing it to direct sunlight

✅ Recommendation:

  • Store the piece in a dark place or somewhere with little natural light.

  • Direct light heats the fat, accelerates rancidity, and ruins the texture.


🧊 4. Mistake: Opening the pack while cold

✅ Recommendation:

  • If you have vacuum-packed slices, take them out of the fridge 30 minutes before eating.

  • Let them reach room temperature and open the pack just before serving.

🧠 Ibérico ham releases its full aroma and flavour at room temperature (≈22 °C). Cold makes it lose smoothness and character.


🧴 5. Mistake: Slicing without cleaning the surface

✅ Recommendation:

  • If you haven’t sliced in a few days, remove the first surface layer before serving again.

  • This avoids rancid flavours or dry areas.


✅ Extra tips for storing like a true ham master

Format How to store Optimal duration
Whole, unopened piece Cool, dry place (no fridge) Up to 6–9 months
Started piece Cover well and slice regularly 1–2 months
Vacuum-packed slices Fridge (7–10 °C). Open 30 min before eating Up to 90 days sealed / 3 days once opened

🧲 In summary:

Storing your Ibérico ham properly makes the difference between