Hillshire Snacking Small Plates offer a convenient and flavorful snacking experience. These curated combinations feature savory meats, cheeses, and crackers designed to satisfy gourmet palates on the go. When stored properly, unopened Hillshire Snacking Small Plates typically last until the “best by” date printed on the packaging, which can be several months from the date of purchase.

Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality and safety of these snack plates. Refrigeration is recommended to preserve freshness and prevent spoilage. Once opened, it’s best to consume the contents within a few days for optimal taste and texture.

The shelf life of Hillshire Snacking Small Plates can vary depending on factors such as storage conditions and specific product varieties. Some products, like those featuring wine-infused salame, may have unique storage requirements or shelf life considerations. Consumers should always check the packaging for specific guidance on storage and expiration dates.

Overview of Hillshire Snacking Small Plates

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates offer a sophisticated snacking experience with carefully curated ingredients. These portable snack packs combine premium meats, cheeses, and crackers for a convenient and flavorful option.

Composition and Ingredients

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates typically feature three main components: cured meats, cheese, and crisp crackers. The meat options include Genoa salame and wine-infused salame, providing a savory base. Natural white cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture and sharp flavor. Toasted rounds serve as the crunchy element, complementing the softer textures.

Key ingredients in these snack plates include pork, wheat flour, sunflower oil, and sea salt. The salame is carefully cured and seasoned, while the crackers are baked to achieve a crisp texture. Some varieties feature wine-infused meats for an extra layer of flavor complexity.

Nutritional Profile

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates offer a balance of macronutrients. They provide a good source of protein from the meat and cheese components. The total fat content varies by variety, with a portion coming from saturated fats due to the cheese and cured meats.

These snack plates contain some carbohydrates from the toasted rounds. Sodium levels are present due to the curing process of the meats and the natural salt content in cheese. Calorie content is moderate, making them suitable for a satisfying snack.

The nutritional breakdown typically includes:

• Protein: 13-15g
• Total fat: 13-15g
• Saturated fat: 6-8g
• Total carbohydrate: 7-9g
• Sodium: 600-700mg
• Cholesterol: 40-50mg

Exact values may vary slightly between different varieties of Hillshire Snacking Small Plates.

Shelf Life and Preservation

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates have a specific shelf life and require proper storage to maintain quality. Understanding expiration dates, storage methods, and signs of spoilage helps consumers enjoy these products safely.

Determining the Expiration Date

Hillshire Farm provides expiration dates on all Small Plates packaging. These dates are determined through rigorous shelf-life testing by the company’s team. The typical shelf life for refrigerated Small Plates is 120 days when stored at the recommended temperature.

Consumers should always check the printed expiration date before consuming the product. This date indicates the last day the snack is expected to maintain peak quality and safety.

The serving size of Small Plates does not impact the expiration date. Each package is designed as a single serving, regardless of its shelf life.

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage is crucial for maximizing the shelf life of Hillshire Snacking Small Plates. These products require consistent refrigeration to maintain freshness and safety.

The ideal storage temperature range is between 28°F and 40°F. Keeping Small Plates within this range helps preserve their flavor and texture.

It’s important to refrigerate the product promptly after purchase. Once opened, consume the contents within a reasonable timeframe for the best experience.

Avoid exposing Small Plates to temperature fluctuations or leaving them at room temperature for extended periods, as this can compromise quality and safety.

Indicators of Spoilage

Even when stored correctly, it’s essential to check for signs of spoilage before consuming Hillshire Snacking Small Plates. Visual cues can indicate if the product has gone bad.

Look for:

• Discoloration of meat or cheese
• Mold growth
• Unusual odors
• Slimy texture

If any of these signs are present, discard the product immediately. It’s not safe to consume Small Plates that show these indicators, even if they are within the expiration date.

Trust your senses when evaluating the product. If anything seems off about the appearance, smell, or texture, it’s best to err on the side of caution and not consume it.

Safety and Allergen Information

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates contain several potential allergens and come with specific warnings. Consumers should carefully review product labels and follow safety guidelines.

List of Potential Allergens

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates may contain common allergens. Natural white cheddar cheese, a key ingredient, contains milk proteins. The deli meats used in these products often contain soy and may have traces of nuts from processing.

Cultured pasteurized milk and enzymes in the cheese can trigger lactose intolerance. Some varieties include isolated oat product, which may not be gluten-free.

Consumers with allergies or sensitivities should check ingredient lists carefully before consumption.

Truth in Labeling and Warnings

Hillshire Farm adheres to strict truth in labeling practices. Product packaging clearly lists all ingredients and potential allergens.

Warnings on the packaging advise proper storage and consumption guidelines. These include keeping the product refrigerated and consuming it by the “use by” date.

The label also indicates if the product was processed in a facility that handles other allergens not present in the specific snack plate. This information helps consumers make informed decisions about product safety.

Product Varieties and Pairings

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates offer a diverse range of flavor combinations featuring premium meats and cheeses. These convenient snack options cater to various tastes and occasions.

Available Flavors and Pairings

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates come in several enticing varieties. The Italian Dry Salami and Gouda Cheese option pairs savory cured meat with creamy Dutch cheese.

Wine-Infused Salame with White Cheddar combines rich salame with sharp cheddar for a sophisticated flavor profile. The pork and beef options are complemented by natural cheeses.

Each plate includes crisp toasted rounds to add texture. Other variations feature tender cuts of pork or beef alongside premium natural cheeses, offering protein-rich snacking options.

Recommended Serving Occasions

These Small Plates are ideal for quick, gourmet-style snacks at home or on-the-go. They work well as appetizers for small gatherings or wine tastings.

The convenient single-serve packaging makes them suitable for office lunches or mid-day breaks. They can elevate picnics or outdoor events with minimal preparation required.

For those seeking a light dinner option, these snack plates pair nicely with a side salad or fresh fruit. They’re also great for satisfying late-night cravings without the need for cooking.

Consumer Information

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates offer a convenient protein-packed option for consumers. These products contain key ingredients and nutritional information that buyers should be aware of when making purchasing decisions.

Daily Values and Diet Compatibility

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates provide 16 grams of protein per serving, making them a substantial snack option. The sodium content varies by flavor but typically ranges from 20-25% of the daily recommended value.

Some varieties contain sodium ascorbate, a form of vitamin C used as a preservative. This ingredient helps maintain color and extends shelf life.

For those following specific diets, it’s important to note that these products contain dairy and meat. They are not suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets.

The calorie content averages around 300 per plate, fitting into many balanced eating plans when consumed in moderation.

Brand Reputation and Quality Assurance

Hillshire Farms, now owned by Tyson Foods, has a long-standing reputation in the meat industry. The brand focuses on flavor sophistication and compatibility in their snacking options.

Quality control measures include the use of rosemary extract as a natural preservative in some products. This helps maintain freshness without artificial additives.

The company emphasizes bold flavors and gourmet snacking experiences. Options like wine-infused salami cater to more refined palates.

Tyson Foods, as the parent company, brings additional resources to ensure consistent product quality and safety standards across the Hillshire Snacking line.

Technical Aspects of Preservation

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates employ various preservation methods to extend shelf life and maintain product quality. These techniques involve careful selection of ingredients and innovative packaging solutions.

Additives and Preservatives

Salt plays a crucial role in preserving Hillshire Snacking Small Plates. It acts as a natural preservative by inhibiting bacterial growth. Sodium nitrite is added to prevent spoilage and maintain color. This compound is particularly effective against Clostridium botulinum, a dangerous foodborne pathogen.

Rosemary extract and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) serve as antioxidants. These additives help prevent rancidity and maintain flavor. Sodium ascorbate, another form of vitamin C, is used for its antioxidant properties and to enhance color stability.

Lactic acid starter cultures contribute to preservation by producing acids that lower pH levels. This creates an environment unfavorable for harmful bacteria. Distilled vinegar is added for its antimicrobial properties and to enhance flavor.

Packaging Innovations

Hillshire Snacking Small Plates utilize modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) to extend shelf life. This technique involves replacing the air inside the package with a carefully controlled mixture of gases. The specific gas composition depends on the product type.

Vacuum sealing is another method employed to preserve freshness. By removing air from the package, oxidation is minimized, and bacterial growth is slowed. This technique is particularly effective for cured meats.

High-barrier packaging materials are used to prevent moisture loss and oxygen penetration. These materials often consist of multiple layers, each serving a specific purpose such as providing strength, moisture barrier, or oxygen barrier properties.