Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef is a popular choice for sandwiches and other quick meals. This premium deli meat offers quality and convenience for meat lovers looking to elevate their dining experience.

Properly stored in the refrigerator, an unopened package of Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef typically lasts 7-10 days past the printed date. Once opened, it’s best to consume the meat within 3-5 days for optimal freshness and flavor. Storing the roast beef in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag can help extend its shelf life.

The longevity of this product stems from Hillshire Farm’s commitment to quality ingredients and production methods. Made without artificial preservatives, flavors, or added nitrates and nitrites (except those naturally occurring in celery juice powder and sea salt), this roast beef balances wholesome ingredients with practical storage considerations.

Overview of Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef

Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef offers consumers a convenient and flavorful deli meat option. This product combines quality ingredients with careful preparation to deliver a versatile and lean protein choice for sandwiches and recipes.

Brand and Product Information

Hillshire Farm is a well-known brand in the packaged meat industry. Their Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef is made from premium-quality beef that is slow-cooked and oven-roasted. The meat is sliced ultra-thin, making it ideal for sandwiches and wraps.

This product comes in a 7 oz package, which is double-sealed to maintain freshness. Hillshire Farm emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients in their products.

Key Features

The Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef boasts several notable features:

• No artificial flavors
• No artificial preservatives
• No added nitrates or nitrites (except those naturally occurring in celery juice powder and sea salt)
• 95% fat-free
• Fully cooked and ready-to-eat

These attributes cater to consumers seeking healthier options without compromising on taste. The product’s lean profile makes it a suitable choice for those watching their fat intake.

The roast beef is juicy and flavorful, despite its low fat content. Its versatility allows for use in various dishes beyond sandwiches, such as salads or appetizers.

Nutritional Value

Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef offers a range of essential nutrients while being low in calories. This lean meat product provides protein, vitamins, and minerals to support a balanced diet.

Protein Content

Protein is a key component of Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef. A 2-ounce (56g) serving contains approximately 10 grams of protein. This amount contributes significantly to the daily protein needs of adults.

Protein is essential for muscle maintenance, tissue repair, and overall body function. The high-quality protein in roast beef provides all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.

For those watching their calorie intake, this product offers a protein-rich option with only 70 calories per 2-ounce serving.

Vitamins and Minerals

Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef contains several important vitamins and minerals. Iron is a notable nutrient found in this product. Iron plays a crucial role in oxygen transport throughout the body and supports overall energy levels.

The roast beef also provides B-vitamins, particularly B12, which is essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation. Zinc, another mineral present in this product, supports immune function and wound healing.

While not a significant source of Vitamin A, the roast beef does contain trace amounts of this nutrient, which is important for eye health and immune function.

Dietary Fiber and Fat

Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef is low in fat and contains no dietary fiber. A 2-ounce serving contains approximately 3 grams of total fat, with minimal saturated fat.

The product is free from trans fats, aligning with recommendations for heart health. It’s also sugar-free, making it suitable for low-carb diets.

Despite its low fat content, the roast beef remains flavorful. The minimal fat content contributes to its low calorie count, making it a lean protein choice for those managing their weight or following a calorie-controlled diet.

Shelf Life and Storage

Proper storage and handling of Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef is crucial for maintaining its quality and safety. Understanding the product’s shelf life and following recommended guidelines helps maximize freshness.

Product Shelf Life

Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef typically lasts 7-10 days when refrigerated and unopened. Once opened, it should be consumed within 3-5 days for best quality. The “use by” date on the package provides a reliable guideline.

USDA inspection ensures the product meets safety standards at the time of packaging. However, proper storage after purchase is essential for maintaining quality.

It’s important to note that these timeframes are estimates. Visual inspection and smell can help determine if the meat is still fresh.

Proper Storage Guidelines

Refrigeration at or below 40°F (4°C) is essential for Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef. Store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back of the bottom shelf.

Keep the package tightly sealed to prevent air exposure. For opened packages, transfer the meat to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.

If freezing, use within 1-2 months for best quality. Thaw frozen roast beef in the refrigerator, never at room temperature.

Safe Handling Instructions

Always wash hands thoroughly before and after handling Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef. Use clean utensils and cutting surfaces to prevent cross-contamination.

Keep the product refrigerated until ready to use. Don’t leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour if the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C).

Check for signs of spoilage before consuming. Discard the product if it has an off odor, slimy texture, or unusual color.

Hillshire Farm uses celery juice powder as a natural preservative in some products. This ingredient helps maintain freshness but doesn’t extend shelf life beyond recommended storage times.

Culinary Uses

Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef offers versatility in the kitchen. Its delicate texture and rich flavor make it a popular choice for various dishes and presentations.

Sandwiches and Wraps

The thinly sliced roast beef excels in sandwiches and wraps. Layer it on whole grain bread with sharp cheddar cheese and sliced red onion for a classic combo. For a lighter option, roll it in a lettuce wrap with avocado and tomato.

Create a French dip sandwich by piling the roast beef on a crusty baguette. Serve with a side of warm au jus for dipping. The thin slices allow for easy folding and stacking, perfect for hearty sandwiches.

For a quick lunch, make pinwheel wraps by spreading cream cheese on a tortilla, adding roast beef and veggies, then rolling and slicing.

Recipes and Cooking Ideas

Incorporate the roast beef into hot dishes for added flavor and protein. Chop it and add to quiches, omelets, or scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast. Use it in pasta dishes like beef stroganoff or beef-stuffed shells.

Create roast beef sliders for parties by layering the meat on small rolls with horseradish sauce and melted provolone. Bake until warm and cheese is melted.

For a low-carb option, make roast beef roll-ups filled with cream cheese and asparagus. Secure with toothpicks and bake until heated through.

Add strips to salads for a protein boost. Try a Southwest-style salad with roast beef, black beans, corn, and chipotle dressing.

Charcuterie and Deli Boards

Ultra thin roast beef is an excellent addition to charcuterie boards and deli platters. Roll or fold the slices for an attractive presentation. Pair with complementary cheeses like blue cheese or aged cheddar.

Add pickled vegetables, olives, and mustards to balance the rich flavor of the beef. Include crusty bread or crackers for serving.

For a themed board, create an “All-American” spread featuring the roast beef alongside other deli meats, American cheeses, and classic condiments.

Use the roast beef to make elegant canapés for cocktail parties. Top crostini with a slice of beef, horseradish cream, and a sprinkle of chives.

Comparison to Other Deli Meats

Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Roast Beef offers distinct characteristics when compared to other deli meat options. Its shelf life and flavor profile differ from turkey varieties and other beef products.

Turkey Varieties

Hillshire Farm’s Ultra Thin Sliced Honey Roasted Turkey Breast typically has a slightly longer shelf life than their roast beef counterpart. This is due to turkey’s lower fat content, which reduces the risk of spoilage.

Turkey varieties often contain less sodium than roast beef, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The honey roasted flavor adds a sweet note, contrasting with roast beef’s savory profile.

In terms of texture, turkey slices tend to be more delicate and easier to separate. This can be advantageous for sandwich assembly but may lead to tearing if not handled carefully.

Other Beef Products

Compared to thicker-cut roast beef options, Hillshire Farm’s Ultra Thin Sliced version typically has a shorter shelf life once opened. The increased surface area exposed to air can accelerate spoilage.

Regular sliced roast beef often retains moisture better, potentially staying fresh for an extra day or two in the refrigerator. However, the ultra-thin slices offer a more delicate texture and are easier to layer in sandwiches.

Smoked beef products generally have a longer shelf life than plain roast beef due to the smoking process. This preservation method can extend freshness by several days when properly stored.