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Dairy & Eggs
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Dairy & Eggs

How long does butter last?

Churned milk fat.

Quick answer
Fridge (40°F / 4°C)
2 months
Wrapped well; absorbs odors easily
Freezer (0°F / -18°C)
1 year
Freezes great
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Signs butter has gone bad

  • Rancid smell (plastic-y, off)
  • Mold on surface
  • Hard yellow rind on edges (cut off, rest fine)

Storage tips

  • Wrap tightly — butter absorbs fridge odors
  • Buying salted? Lasts 30% longer than unsalted
  • Counter butter: 1–2 days max for raw, salted version
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Disclaimer: Times shown are USDA/FDA-recommended best quality periods, not absolute safety guarantees. Storage conditions, packaging, and food handling all affect actual shelf life. When in doubt, throw it out.