This product is a whole bone-in Country Ham naturally dry-cured with salt, pepper, sugar, brown sugar, nitrites, and nitrates, without smoking. It is then vacuum-packed and suitable for shipping and storage for an extended period without refrigeration. It can be safely stored in a cool place at room temperature until it is prepared for use. Once the ham's outer skin is cut open, it should be packaged and stored like any other perishable food product. A benign mold found on a cured Country Ham is typical and to be expected. You should remove the mold using a brush and vigorously scrubbing the entire ham to remove the mold and any residual curing mixture.