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Does Peanut Butter Go Bad?

Published in Food Storage 2 mins read

Yes, peanut butter does go bad. While it doesn't necessarily "spoil" in the traditional sense, it can become rancid, lose its flavor, and change in texture over time. The shelf life depends on whether it's commercially processed or natural peanut butter, and whether it's opened or unopened.

How Long Does Peanut Butter Last?

Here's a breakdown of how long peanut butter typically lasts:

Unopened Peanut Butter

  • Commercially processed peanut butter can last for a considerable time when unopened, often past the "best by" date, if stored properly in a cool, dark place.
  • Natural peanut butter (the kind where the oil separates) generally has a slightly shorter shelf life, even when unopened. Always check the expiration date.

Opened Peanut Butter

The lifespan of opened peanut butter is important to know to ensure freshness. According to provided reference information:

  • Commercially Processed Peanut Butter: An open jar can last up to 3 months in the pantry or up to 9 months in the refrigerator.
  • Natural Peanut Butter: Has a shorter shelf life and lasts up to 6 months in the refrigerator once opened.
Type of Peanut Butter Storage Condition Shelf Life (Opened)
Commercially Processed Pantry Up to 3 months
Commercially Processed Refrigerator Up to 9 months
Natural Peanut Butter Refrigerator Up to 6 months

Signs That Peanut Butter Has Gone Bad

Even if your peanut butter is within the suggested timeframe, look for these signs of spoilage:

  • Change in Smell: A rancid or off odor is a clear indicator.
  • Change in Texture: Excessive dryness or a very hard texture can occur.
  • Change in Taste: A bitter or unpleasant taste means it's time to discard it.
  • Mold Growth: While less common, mold can sometimes grow, especially if the jar was contaminated.

Tips to Extend Peanut Butter's Shelf Life

  • Store it Properly: Keep opened jars tightly sealed and in a cool, dark place (or in the refrigerator, especially for natural peanut butter).
  • Use Clean Utensils: Avoid contaminating the peanut butter with other food particles by always using a clean spoon or knife.
  • Don't Double-Dip: This introduces bacteria and speeds up spoilage.