How can I tell if butter has gone bad?

Trust your senses: a sour or off smell, slimy or separated texture, or any visible mould means it has spoiled. When in doubt, throw it out.

Most dairy freezes well for quality purposes, though texture may change slightly after thawing. Check the freezer column in the table above for the recommended time.

How Long Does Butter Last? Storage Times & Signs of Spoilage

How Long Does Butter Last?

With proper storage, the typical fridge shelf life of butter is 3 months; at room temperature about 7 days, and 12 months in the freezer. These are general estimates — always check the product label and trust your senses.

Butter in the Fridge

Dairy keeps longest in the coldest part of the fridge (the back of a middle or lower shelf), never in the door. Salted butter lasts longer than unsalted. Store away from strong-smelling foods.

Storing Butter at Room Temperature

At room temperature, butter typically keeps for about 7 days. Warmer rooms and humidity shorten this time considerably.

Can You Freeze Butter?

Butter keeps for about 12 months in the freezer when properly sealed. Freeze in airtight containers or bags, leaving room for expansion, and thaw in the fridge.

Signs of Spoilage

Signs that dairy has spoiled include a sour smell, curdled or separated texture, and mould on the surface.

Storage Tips

Dairy keeps longest in the coldest part of the fridge (the back of a middle or lower shelf), never in the door.