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Syrups & nut butters · Storage guide

How long does natural peanut butter last? Fridge, freezer & pantry

Natural peanut butter storage guide — how long it lasts
Stored properly, natural peanut butter keeps in the fridge for 6 months and in the pantry for around 3 months. Once cooked or cut, use it within about 3 months.

Storage temperatures: keep the fridge at ≤4 °C (40 °F), the freezer at −18 °C (0 °F), and the pantry cool and dry at room temperature.

Natural peanut butter — shelf life by storage location
Fridge ≤4 °C · 40 °Fabout 6 months
Freezer −18 °C · 0 °FNot recommended
Pantry room tempabout 3 months
Once cooked or cutabout 3 months (refrigerated)

Times are for unopened, properly stored natural peanut butter and reflect best quality. Always use your senses and follow any date on the package.

Signs natural peanut butter has gone bad

  • A sharp, rancid smell from the oil that floated to the top.
  • A hard, dry layer at the bottom of the jar.
  • Mould on the surface or around the rim.

When in doubt, throw it out — the cost of a spoiled meal isn't worth the risk.

Best way to store natural peanut butter

Natural peanut butter has no stabilisers, so the oil separates and the top layer turns rancid on a warm shelf. Refrigerate it after opening, and store the jar upside down so the oil redistributes back through it.

Frequently asked questions

How long does natural peanut butter last in the freezer?

Freezing natural peanut butter is not recommended — it loses too much texture or quality. Store it refrigerated, or in a cool, dry pantry instead, as shown in the table above.

How long does natural peanut butter last in the fridge or refrigerator?

Unopened natural peanut butter keeps for about 6 months in the fridge. After opening, use it within about 3 months.

How can I tell if natural peanut butter has gone bad?

A sharp, rancid smell from the oil that floated to the top. A hard, dry layer at the bottom of the jar. Mould on the surface or around the rim. When in doubt, throw it out.

Sources

Shelf-life figures and food-safety guidance are based on these authoritative sources:

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