How Long Does Butter (Opened) Last?
Butter (Opened) keeps 2–4 weeks in the refrigerator after opening, according to cited USDA/FDA storage references.
- 2 cited USDA/FDA/FSIS sources
- Editorial review · Verified June 2026
Fridge opened
2–4 weeks
Safe range
- Only storage locations with source-backed entries are shown; a missing freezer or pantry card means FoodLasts does not have a supported value.
- Unopened and after-opening tabs are split because the source data has separate entries.
Based on USDA/FSIS guidance:
Keep eggs and refrigerated dairy at 40°F or below; sell-by dates are quality guides, not safety deadlines when storage has been cold.
Once opened, butter picks up fridge odours quickly — keep it covered and use it before it tastes stale.
How to tell if it's gone bad
- Look:Yellow-brown oxidised surface
- Smell:Rancid or sour smell
- Texture:Hard, dry skin on the cut face
When in doubt, throw it out. If Butter (Opened) smells, looks, or feels off — discard it. Food poisoning is not worth the risk.
Storage tips
Keep opened butter in a covered dish or its wrapper and only leave out the small amount you will use within a day or two.
Is it still good?
Enter when you bought or opened it and where it's stored.
Common questions
- How long does opened Butter (opened) last in the fridge?
- Opened Butter (opened) lasts 2–4 weeks refrigerated.
Related foods
Related states
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