How to Store Butter: Refrigerated or at Room Temperature?

Use the refrigerator to store butter; for longer storage, freeze it if the product is suitable. Follow the package instructions for time and temperature. Conditions for room-temperature storage vary with the product's salt and water content and the ambient temperature; there is no blanket allowance of several days for all butter.

How Should It Be Stored in the Refrigerator and During Use?
Keep butter refrigerated in its original wrapping or a clean, closed container. You can separate the amount needed for serving or a recipe and soften it before use; do not leave the whole pack on the counter for days. If freezing, wrap it well and follow the package's freezing instructions. Keep it covered and separate from strongly scented foods to avoid affecting its aroma.

What Are Common Mistakes?
Avoid prolonged storage in sunlight, in open packaging or in a warm kitchen. Keep the butter dish clean and prevent crumbs from entering it. Do not assume that other spreadable fats have the same storage requirements as butter.

Are Salted and Unsalted Butter Stored the Same Way?
Salt content varies between brands. Being salted does not permit unlimited storage at room temperature. Refrigerate unsalted and whipped butter; refrigerating salted butter also avoids uncertain room conditions. Do not follow advice to store butter at room temperature for days if there are no clear instructions specific to the product.

What Should You Do If Spoilage Is Suspected?
Do not use butter with mold, an unexpected unpleasant smell or clear spoilage; do not try to salvage it by cutting off just one part. Do not taste a suspect product to test it. Normal appearance does not make storage history irrelevant. Follow the label instructions and do not use a product if you are unsure it has been stored appropriately.