Does Almond Butter Need to be Refrigerated?
You opened your first jar of delicious almond butter, and now you’re not sure. Does almond butter need to be refrigerated, or can you keep it in the pantry?
How long does almond butter last? Does it expire? And how will you know if your almond butter has gone bad?
Continue reading to see just how easy it is to store and enjoy this healthy nut butter.
How Long Does Almond Butter Last?
That depends on whether we’re talking about commercial or homemade almond butter.
If unopened, most commercial almond butter will last a few months past the date on the label. Once opened, it lasts 3-5 months in the pantry or 6-9 months in the fridge.
Homemade almond butter lasts about a month. Because it isn’t pasteurized like commercial brands, it always needs to be refrigerated.
Does Almond Butter Need to Be Refrigerated?
When it comes to commercial almond butter, manufacturers don’t have any clear recommendations. However, storing almond butter in the fridge will extend its freshness and taste.
One drawback to the fridge is that almond butter tends to get hard. If you prefer smooth butter, take it out of the fridge 15 minutes before serving and let it adjust to room temperature.
If you decide not to refrigerate your almond butter, you can store it in a cool, dry place. Keep it tightly sealed and away from the sun. But remember, almond butter stored in the pantry won’t last as long as it will in the fridge.
When it comes to homemade almond butter, you always need to keep it refrigerated. If you won’t be able to use it within the next couple of weeks, go ahead and freeze it. Homemade almond butter will last three months in the freezer.
Does Almond Butter Expire?
While commercial almond butter usually lasts longer than what’s stated on the label, all nut butter eventually goes rancid.
Nut oils go rancid when exposed to air, light, moisture, or bacteria. Once opened, this process begins. Warm temperatures will speed up this process.
How can you tell if your almond butter has gone bad?
First, the smell test. Almond butter should have a deliciously nutty aroma. If it smells sour or has a chemical smell like oil-based paint, it has gone rancid.
Next, the taste test. If it smells okay but tastes off, it’s probably bad. Also, toss it if you see signs of mold or black or brown spots on the butter.
What About Oil Separation?
Don’t worry if you notice a layer of oil on top. It doesn’t mean that your almond butter has gone bad. Oil separation is common, especially in homemade and natural almond butter.
Give it a quick stir and you’re ready to spread. So go ahead and keep your almond butter in the fridge. Take out what you need for the next few days and keep that portion in the pantry.
This way you’ll have the best of both worlds – smooth, creamy almond butter while retaining its peak freshness and great taste.
Further Reading
- Can You Eat Almond Butter on Keto?
- Is Almond Butter Low FODMAP?
- How to Soften Almond Butter
- Does Almond Butter Have Lectins?
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