In short, yes.
Although not as perishable as other kinds of dairy, butter most definitely does go bad.
With proper storage butter can last quite a while, but not forever.
Credit: Photography: Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
How To Tell if Butter Has Gone Bad
Trust your senses!
The first clue that your butter has gone bad will be the smell.
Any sour or off-putting smell means it’s a goner.
As they say, if in doubt, throw it outthere’s no reason to risk it.
Nobody likes spreading cold butter on toast, but butter also goes bad quicker at room temperature.
but salt is a natural preservative that helps it last longer and be less prone to harmful bacteria.
Next, butter should be stored in an airtight, opaque container.
Lastly, don’t store butter on the counter if the temperature in your kitchen is above 72F.
You shouldfreeze your butterbefore its use-by date.
Store it in its original packaging, and place it inside a zip-top freezer bag for extra protection.
you’re free to also portion it out.
Just tightly wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and then place the portions in a freezer bag.
How Long Does Butter Last In the Fridge?
For longer storage, freeze your butter.
Is It Okay To Use Expired Butter?
Expiration dates are tricky.
When those dates pass, it doesn’t mean the butter has automatically gone bad.
Butter, especially when stored in the fridge and freezer, can avoid spoilage longer than other dairy products.
If it does, use it, but do so fairly quickly as it won’t last forever.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, AskUSDA.Is butter safe at room temperature?
PennState Extension.Troubleshooting milk flavor problems.
