DAK Canned Ham is fully cooked. No refrigeration necessary until opened. US inspected and passed by Department of Agriculture. Ready to eat. Great for camping, picnics, hunting, fishing. Shelf life of 3.5 to 4 years. Please note that the product comes from across the ocean and we have noticed over the years that once in a while the can will have tiny rust spots on the top.   This is just exterior, plus the product has an interior lining to protect it for a very log shelf life.  Dak ham has assured us that this does not affect its integrity and shelf life.