Does Butter Go Bad in the Fridge? How Long Does It Last?

Butter is one of the most beloved dairy products. It goes well with bread to make a perfect breakfast.

Additionally, you can use it in lunch, dinner, and snack recipes. It has a unique flavor you will not find in any other ingredient.

Butter is best stored in the fridge. It is the most common method of keeping it for longer. But does butter go bad in the fridge? Let’s find the answer!

Does Butter Go Bad in the Fridge?

Yes, butter can go bad in the fridge if stored for over 6 months. Even before this duration, you will start noticing signs of spoilage.

The thumb rule is to finish the butter pack within a few months. Set your target to 3-4 months. This way, you can avoid spoilage in the butter.

Also Read:

• Does Cheesecake Go Bad in the Fridge
• Do Potatoes Go Bad
• Do Eggs Go Bad

What Does Bad Butter Look Like?

Well, you can easily identify rancid butter from its color and smell. It will be way off than the original. Moreover, mold also occurs in butter if it is kept for too long.

How Long Does Butter Last in the Fridge?

Generally, the ideal time to keep butter in the fridge is between 1 to 3 months.

After that, it loses its freshness and texture. That said, butter can survive in the fridge for up to 6 months, although it may develop some unusual properties.

Do you want to store butter for longer than 3 to 6 months? Well, your best option is a freezer.

It can help you freeze butter for up to 8 to 12 months. People usually buy separate blocks and packs of butter. These can survive even 18 months in the freezer.

Can I Use Butter After Expiration Date?

It depends on the butter. Usually, you may use butter for up to 1 week after its expiration date.

However, this period varies for refrigerated and unopened butter.

If it is still packed, you can use it 2 weeks beyond its expiry date. Generally, butter packs come with a long expiry date.

But, it is best to check it before buying. You can read it under “Best By,” “Exp,” or “Sell by” mentioned on the pack.

How Long Does Buttermilk Last in the Fridge?

Buttermilk can survive up to 2 weeks (14 days) in the fridge.

If the pack is unopened, it can last for 3 weeks. Additionally, buttermilk can be used up 2-3 days after its expiry date.

But, it is best not to use it if you see any signs of spoilage. You can also store buttermilk in the freezer. This way, it will survive up to 3-4 months.

How Long Does Unsalted Butter Last in the Fridge?

Unsalted butter lasts up to 8 weeks in the fridge, while salted can survive over 12 months provided under the right conditions.

However, the 8 weeks are for unpacked salted butter. Rest assured, you can keep it for longer if it is wrapped.

It also lasts over a month after its expiry date. If it is opened, it can still survive two weeks more than its best-by date.

Does Butter Go Bad if Not Refrigerated?

Yes, butter should always be stored in the refrigerator. If not, it can result in spoilage, allowing the butter to develop unusual properties.

Generally, butter does not survive more than 2 days at room temperature.

As reported by USDA, margarine and butter can turn rancid, lurking outside the fridge. Hence, they can start losing flavors.

Always store your packed and unpacked butter in the fridge. You can use various wraps and containers to keep the dairy product safe if it is opened.

How to store Butter?

The best way to store butter is to use an airtight container in the fridge. If you are keeping it outside, avoid sunlight.

You can store butter in the fridge as well as the freezer. However, choosing the right container is necessary. You have several options.

Go for butter’s original packaging, or choose an airtight container. Either way, avoid sunlight and moisture.

How Long Does Butter Last Out of the Fridge?

A pack of butter can only last for 2 days, at most outside the fridge.

Unlike many other dairy products, butter does not fit too well at room temperature. It can go rancid if not kept in the fridge.

You will notice properties like unusual flavor, a dull color, and an unpleasant smell. These are the common signs of rancid butter.

Why Does Butter Last So Long?

Butter remains fresh and lasts longer than other dairy products due to its low water content.

Additionally, butter contains less lactose than milk or other dairy products. That is why it can prevent bacterial growth for a longer time.

The non-water body allows the butter to keep the mold at bay. If kept in its original packaging in the fridge, butter can do wonders!

How to Store Butter in Fridge?

You can store butter in its original packaging in the fridge. It allows the butter to prevent moisture, remaining fresh for weeks.

Have you torn your original packaging? Well, it is a common problem. In that case, here’s how you can store butter in the fridge:

• Take aluminum foil.
• Wrap your butter tightly around it.
• Lastly, put the wrapped butter in the fridge to keep it fresh.

Does Butter Go Bad After Expiration Date?

An unopened butter can survive up to a month beyond its expiry date. However, the key is to refrigerate it.

Even opened butter can last up to 1 week after its best-by date. You can further extend the expiry by storing the butter in the freezer.

An opened frozen butter pack can survive up to 1 year after its expiry date.

To Wrap Up

That’s all there is to know about storing the butter in the fridge. You can keep it refrigerated, but following the right method is necessary.

Avoid keeping butter in an open container with air ventilation. It can speed up the oxidation process, spoiling your butter earlier than its expiry date.

It is also best to check your butter before using it. Although rancid butter can not make you sick, it may taste unpleasant.

Plus, it can be a risk for people with sensitive stomachs.

Crystal Hafley

Crystal Hafley is a dedicated writer and content creator for WorstBrands, where she specializes in writing insightful reviews about kitchen appliances and fashion products.

With her expertise, Crystal provides readers with accurate and reliable information to help them make informed decisions about the brands and products they use every day. When she's not researching or writing, Crystal enjoys cooking and exploring the latest fashion trends.