How long does Butter last?
In the fridge: 30 days
In the freezer: 270 days
Salted butter lasts about 1 month in the fridge once opened; unsalted lasts 2–3 weeks because the salt acts as a preservative. Sealed packs hold roughly 3 months past the printed date when refrigerated. Freezing extends it to 9 months without quality loss — wrap tightly to block freezer odors. Soft, room-temperature butter in a covered dish is fine for a week or so in a cool kitchen but turns rancid faster in summer.
How to store it
- Wrap tightly — butter absorbs nearby odors
- Keep main supply below 4°C in a sealed container
- Daily butter in a covered dish at cool room temp lasts a week
- Freeze in 250g portions for up to 9 months
- Thaw in the fridge, not on the counter
Signs it has gone bad
- Rancid, paint-like or stale smell
- Yellow, dark, or discolored surface
- Sour, sharp aftertaste
- Visible mold or unusual texture
Signs it has gone bad
How long does butter last in the fridge?
Opened salted butter lasts about a month; unsalted 2–3 weeks. Sealed packs hold roughly 3 months past the printed date.
Can butter sit out at room temperature?
Yes, in a covered butter dish at cool room temperature for about a week. In hot weather refrigerate everything.
Can butter be frozen?
Yes, for up to 9 months. Double-wrap in parchment + foil or a freezer bag to prevent absorbed odors.