Too Good To Go Blog

BUTTER IN THE FRIDGE TOO LONG? NO WORRIES! HOW TO ENJOY BUTTER PAST ITS BEST IF USED BY

BEST IF USED BY DATES: WHAT DO THEY REALLY MEAN?

When you see a Best if Used By date (or similar terms, as manufacturers use different labels) on your butter, it might make you think it's no longer safe to eat after that date. However, that is not the case since Best if Used By dates are about food quality, not safety. These dates indicate how long the product will be at its peak flavor and texture.

CAN YOU STILL ENJOY BUTTER PAST ITS BEST IF USED BY DATE?

Yes, butter can be safely used past its Best if Used By date if it has been stored properly. Storing butter in the fridge, wrapped tightly, will extend its freshness. To prolong the life of your butter you can freeze unopened butter prior to it's Best if Used By date. Frozen salted butter will keep for up to 9 months and frozen unsalted butter will keep for up to 5 months (US Dairy, 2016).

TRUST YOUR SENSES: LOOK, SMELL, AND TASTE BEFORE YOU WASTE

To check if your butter is still good, trust your senses. Look at it: if you notice any mold or discoloration, it's best to throw it out. Next, smell it. Fresh butter has a mild, creamy scent. If it smells sour or rancid, it’s time to discard it. Finally, taste a small piece. If you still like the taste, it’s good to use!

REDUCE FOOD WASTE AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Understanding Best if Used By dates can help avoid unnecessary wastage. 20% of consumer food waste in the US results from misunderstanding date labels, (FDA, 2024). Since Best if Used By dates are just freshness indicators, we encourage you to trust your senses before throwing away perfectly good food. By reducing food waste, you not only save money by making the most of what you buy but also help avoid CO2e emissions and the unnecessary use of valuable resources like water and land. Every small action counts in our collective efforts to help save the planet.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR BUTTER

To extend the life of your butter, consider freezing it or using it in cooking or baking to prevent waste. Discover more food-saving hacks, recipes, and tips on our Instagram.