How Long Does Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi Last?
Storage Tips and Shelf Life
Looking to enjoy a quick and delicious meal? Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi might just be the perfect solution, combining tender shrimp, linguini pasta, and crisp vegetables in a flavorful garlic butter sauce. Ensuring the longevity of this convenient meal involves properly storing and handling it.
When kept frozen at the correct temperature, Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi can last for months without compromising quality. Once prepared, any leftovers should be promptly refrigerated and can usually be safely consumed within 3-4 days.
Understanding storage guidelines and shelf life can help you maximize the convenience and deliciousness this product offers. Proper storage practices are key to enjoying the meal at its best, whether you choose to cook it in a skillet or microwave.
Product Overview
Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi is a convenient, flavorful meal option combining shrimp, linguini pasta, and a mix of garden peas and bell peppers in a garlic butter sauce. It's designed for quick preparation in under 15 minutes.
Key Ingredients
The primary components of this dish are shrimp, linguini pasta, and a garlic butter sauce. Shrimp is the star, providing protein and a delicate flavor.
The linguini pasta offers a perfect base for the meal, absorbing the rich garlic butter sauce. The dish is enhanced with garden peas, which add sweetness, and a blend of red and yellow bell peppers, which contribute vibrant colors and a slight crunch.
Nutritional Information
A single serving of Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi offers important nutritional details. This meal contains approximately 250 calories per serving, making it a relatively light option.
The saturated fat content stands at about 2.5 grams, while sodium levels reach nearly 800 milligrams, contributing to the dish’s savory flavor. Noteworthy is the absence of artificial flavors, emphasizing the use of quality ingredients.
Special Dietary Features
Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi caters to specific dietary needs with some highlighted features. One key aspect is that it contains no artificial flavors, appealing to those who prefer natural ingredients.
It is also important to cook thoroughly to a temperature of 175 degrees F due to the inclusion of raw shrimp. While it is not specifically marketed as a low-calorie or low-sodium dish, it provides a balanced meal option that avoids preservatives and unnecessary additives.
Preparation and Cooking
Preparing Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi is straightforward and quick. With the right cookware and following simple steps, this dish can be ready in minutes, making it perfect for a family meal. The necessary directions, recommended tools, and serving ideas are provided below.
Cooking Instructions
The preferred method for cooking Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi is using a nonstick skillet.
Empty the frozen contents of both the bag and sauce pouch into a 10-inch nonstick skillet.
Add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet.
Cover and cook over medium-high heat for 11 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If using a microwave, follow specific instructions typically provided on the package for optimal results.
Recommended Cookware
A 10-inch nonstick skillet is the recommended cookware for Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi. The skillet allows for even cooking and prevents the shrimp and pasta from sticking. Ensure the skillet has a lid for proper steaming.
Using nonstick cookware also makes cleaning easier. If a microwave is the only option, ensure it has at least 700 watts of power for adequate cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, the shrimp scampi pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Serve it on a table set with:
Fresh green salad
Crusty garlic bread
Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for added zest. Optionally, add grated Parmesan cheese on top to enhance the flavors. Serve the dish immediately to enjoy the shrimp at its best texture and quality.
Storage Guidelines
Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi should be stored correctly to maintain its quality and safety. The product's shelf life varies depending on whether it is refrigerated or frozen. Proper storage techniques and understanding how to handle the product post-cooking are also crucial.
Shelf Life
Refrigerated Storage:
Once cooked, Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. It should be placed in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and contamination. Signs that shrimp scampi has gone bad include a foul odor, slimy texture, or mold. Ensure the refrigerator temperature is maintained at 40°F or below.
Shelf Life Tips:
Storage Temperature: Always keep refrigerated at 40°F or below.
Container Type: Use airtight containers.
Spoilage Signs: Discard if there’s an unpleasant smell, unusual texture, or visible mold.
Freezing and Defrosting
Freezing:
For longer storage, Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi can be frozen. To freeze, place it in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring minimal air exposure to prevent freezer burn. Properly frozen shrimp scampi can last for up to 2 months without significant loss of quality.
Defrosting:
When ready to eat, defrost the shrimp scampi in the refrigerator. This method ensures even thawing and minimizes bacterial growth. Avoid defrosting at room temperature to reduce the risk of contamination. Once thawed, reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Quick Tips:
Freezer Storage: Store in an airtight container or heavy-duty bag.
Freezing Duration: Up to 2 months for optimal quality.
Defrosting Method: Thaw in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.
Reheating: Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Safety and Quality
When considering the longevity of Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi, it’s crucial to understand both the packaging standards and how to properly handle raw shrimp to maximize safety and quality.
Packaging Standards
Birds Eye Voila! frozen meals follow stringent packaging protocols to ensure freshness and safety. Each package is sealed in a high-quality, airtight bag to prevent contamination and freezer burn. The packaging is designed to keep the shrimp and other ingredients fresh for a prolonged period, typically up to 12 months when stored at recommended freezer temperatures.
The bags include clear instructions and expiration dates. Frozen meals, like the Shrimp Scampi, are best consumed by the "best by" date to maintain peak flavor and texture.
Handling Raw Shrimp
Proper handling of raw shrimp is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses. Always store the product in the freezer until ready to use. The shrimp within the dish should be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 175 degrees F. Cooked shrimp will appear opaque and white in the center.
When preparing, avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils for raw and cooked shrimp. Promptly refrigerate any leftovers to prevent bacterial growth. Handling raw shrimp in a careful manner ensures that the meal remains safe and enjoyable to consume.
Purchase and Availability
Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi can be conveniently purchased through multiple channels including in-store and online options, ensuring it's accessible for various preferences and needs.
In-store Purchase
Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi is widely available in the frozen foods sections of major supermarkets such as Publix, Kroger, and Walmart. Shoppers can find this product typically near other frozen meal options.
Retailers often stock different varieties to cater to customer preferences. Due to its quick preparation time, it is a popular choice for quick weeknight dinners. One can verify availability by checking their local store’s inventory online or a quick visit to the store. Many stores also offer in-store pick-up services.
Online Shopping
For those who prefer online shopping, Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi is accessible through various e-commerce platforms. Websites like Amazon, Instacart, and local grocery store websites provide options for home delivery or in-store pickup.
Through delivery services such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, and others, customers can also get this meal delivered directly to their doorstep, often within the same day. Additionally, Birds Eye’s official website offers detailed product information and links to purchase from partner retailers.
Online shopping for this product not only saves time but also allows comparison of prices and offers.
Brand and Manufacturer
Birds Eye Voila! is a trusted name in the frozen food sector, known for producing convenient, high-quality meal solutions. The brand's focus on quality ingredients and ease of preparation resonates with busy consumers seeking nutritious options.
Company Profile
Birds Eye Voila! is a product line under the banner of Birds Eye, a well-established company in the frozen food industry. Birds Eye has been dedicated to providing nutritious vegetables and meal solutions since its founding in 1923 by Clarence Birdseye.
The Birds Eye brand is recognized for pioneering methods to preserve the freshness and nutritional value of vegetables through flash freezing, ensuring that their products maintain high quality from the farm to the consumer's table. Birds Eye Voila!, in particular, offers a range of easy-to-prepare skillet meals that feature an array of wholesome ingredients such as seafood, vegetables, and pasta.
Birds Eye has consistently upheld its commitment to providing convenient meal options without sacrificing taste or nutritional integrity, and Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi is a testament to this legacy.
Contact Information
To get in touch with Birds Eye for any inquiries or customer support, several contact methods are available.
Address: Birds Eye is headquartered at 1 Larsen Park Road, Camden, NJ 08103. This location houses their main corporate offices.
Customer Service Phone Number: Consumers can reach Birds Eye customer service at 1-800-563-1786. This number is available for questions regarding product information, preparation tips, and feedback.
Website and Email: More information about Birds Eye and its product lineup, including Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi, can be found on their official website at www.birdseye.com. There is also a contact form on the website for inquiries.
Birds Eye's commitment to quality and customer service is evident in their accessible contact options and responsive support team.
Consumer Insights
Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi has garnered varied opinions from consumers. While some praise its convenience, others have specific queries about its preparation and storage.
Reviews and Ratings
Voila! Shrimp Scampi holds an average rating of 4.35 out of 5 from 468 reviews on Influenster. Many users appreciate the ease and quickness of preparing this meal, making it a popular choice for those needing a home-cooked meal in minutes.
Some consumers, however, express dissatisfaction with the taste and time saved compared to making shrimp scampi from scratch. They believe it lacks the freshness and flavor of a homemade meal. Despite these mixed reviews, the meal's convenience remains a key selling point.
Common Queries
A frequent question revolves around how long the Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi can be stored before and after preparation. It's essential to refrigerate any leftovers promptly to maintain quality and safety.
Consumers often ask about preparation methods. The package suggests a skillet as the preferred method, involving emptying the frozen contents into a nonstick skillet with water, cooking for 11 to 12 minutes. Some also inquire about microwave instructions for quicker preparation.
Understanding these aspects helps consumers make informed decisions when considering Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi for their quick meal solutions when having friends over for a quick dinner.
Additional Information
Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi frozen meals provide convenience and nutrition. Key details about allergies and legal aspects are crucial for ensuring safe consumption.
Allergy Advice
Birds Eye Voila! Shrimp Scampi contains several potential allergens. The primary ingredients include shrimp, linguini pasta, peas, red and yellow bell peppers, and a garlic butter sauce. It's essential to note that the pasta typically contains wheat, so individuals with wheat allergies or gluten intolerance should avoid this meal.
Additionally, while the meal does not list any milk derivatives, those with dairy allergies should still check for any cross-contamination warnings on the packaging. As always, read the label carefully to identify any components that may not be safe for those with specific food allergies or sensitivities.
Legal and Disclaimer
Birds Eye emphasizes keeping their Voila! Shrimp Scampi frozen until use, and it should not be thawed before cooking. They provide explicit cooking instructions to ensure the meal is heated properly. This is important both for safety and to preserve the taste and texture.
The packaging clearly states "No artificial flavors or preservatives," which is a reassuring feature for health-conscious consumers. Legal disclaimers also highlight that while the company strives for accuracy, they advise always checking the latest packaging details as ingredients and preparation methods can change.
Moreover, the product's nutritional information should be reviewed for dietary compliance, especially concerning sodium and calorie content. Users should always consider the most up-to-date information provided by Birds Eye for accurate dietary planning.
