Bakeries, Food Safety, Kitchen & Cooking Tips

Does Butter Need to Be Refrigerated?

Last updated on Oct 26, 2023
Kayla Nelson

When it comes to butter, there's a debate that has been going on for years - should it be refrigerated or not? The answer, as it turns out, depends on the type of butter, your kitchen's climate, and the storage container being used.

Can You Leave Butter Out?

According to the FDA, not all butter is classified as a TCS food, which means some butter types can be stored safely at room temperature. Pasteurized butter that contains sufficient amounts of fat and salt to prevent the growth of bacteria can be safely kept at room temperature for one to two days.

Butter is made from churning milk or cream and typically contains at least 80% milk fat. The high fat content in butter helps to preserve it for a longer time compared to other perishable dairy products. To guarantee its safety and prevent the growth of bacteria, commercially made butter undergoes the pasteurization process, which involves heating the butter to kill any harmful bacteria that may be present. This process helps extend the shelf life of the butter and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

How Long Can You Leave Butter Out?

cubes of unsalted butter in a bowl next to flour

We’ve outlined below how long you can leave certain types of butter out on the counter and which ones should stay refrigerated.

  • Salted butter can be left at room temperature for one to two days if stored properly. The addition of salt acts as a natural preservative and significantly lowers the risk of bacterial contamination. If you will not use the salted butter in this time frame, it is best to keep it refrigerated.
  • Unsalted butter can be left out at room temperature for up to six hours before baking. Unlike salted butter, unsalted butter is more susceptible to spoilage due to its lack of salt as a natural preservative so it is best to store it in the refrigerator.
  • Whipped butter, margarine, compound butter, and vegan butter are more prone to spoilage and should always be refrigerated.
  • Unpasteurized or homemade butter is considered a TCS food and should always be refrigerated.

Tips for Storing Butter on the Counter

If you do plan to keep salted butter at room temperature for easy spreading, here are some tips to make sure it stays fresh:

  • Keep only small amounts of butter at a time at room temperature. Store the rest in your refrigerator or freezer for future use.
  • Store it in an opaque butter dish or airtight container to protect it from light and air.
  • Store it away from direct sources of heat, such as the stove.
  • Make sure the room’s temperature is below 72 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in a warmer climate or have a particularly hot kitchen, it's best to err on the side of caution and refrigerate your butter to maintain its quality.

How Long Does Butter Last in the Fridge?

In the refrigerator, unsalted butter can last for one month, while salted butter can last for up to three months because of the salt’s preserving nature. For optimal shelf life, it is recommended to store butter in its original packaging at the back of the refrigerator. This section tends to be the coldest part, ensuring the butter stays fresh for longer.

If you have a large quantity of butter that you won't be able to use up within a few weeks, you can also freeze it. Freezing butter extends its shelf life for up to a year. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

Does Butter Go Bad?

chef cutting a stick of butter

The short answer is yes, butter is a perishable product that can go bad if not stored properly. Because of its high fat content, butter can turn rancid due to a process known as oxidation. When butter is exposed to oxygen, light, or heat, it can oxidize and develop an off-flavor and color.

To prevent butter from spoiling and going rancid, it's best to store it in the refrigerator. The cool temperature helps slow down the oxidation process and keeps the butter fresh for longer periods. However, if you prefer to have your butter soft and spreadable, you can keep a small amount at room temperature in a covered butter dish. Just make sure to use it within a few days to avoid any potential spoilage.

How to Tell If Butter Has Gone Bad

If you're concerned about the quality of your butter, there are a few signs to look out for. Rancid butter tends to have a sour or off smell. It may also have a yellow or brown color instead of the usual creamy white. Additionally, if you notice any mold growth on the butter, it's definitely time to discard it.

Although refrigeration is the optimal method for storing butter, it is worth noting that salted butter can be safely kept at room temperature for a maximum of two days. If you choose to leave your butter out, follow our guidelines to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage.

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