When would an unopened package of ham or bacon go bad?

The “sell by” date factors in that the meat has been cured. So I would not use more than a week past the sell by date. And I would not use at all past the “use by” date.

The nose test, if you sniff and vomit, don’t eat it

airtight plastic, no refrigeration? A week max.

If unsure just freeze it until you are ready to use it.

Might be okay to eat a few days after that date of course, as that’s the date they must pull it by to sell. But really, if at all in doubt throw it out. It’s really not worth getting sick over.

Hmmm…I have some unopened, sealed bacon in the original package that I bought at least a year ago. It’s been refrigerated, not frozen. So you’re all saying I shouldn’t eat it? Really? Just up and throw it away? It looks exactly like it did the day I bought it. How can it “go bad” if never exposed to air?