Do You Have to Refrigerate Peanut Butter?
Key Points
- No — it’s not necessary to refrigerate an opened jar of commercially manufactured peanut butter, says the National Peanut Board
- An opened jar of processed peanut butter will usually keep well for about 3 months when stored in a dark cupboard at normal room temperature
- Once refrigerated, it will generally remain at good quality for an additional 3 to 4 months
Overview
No — it’s not necessary to refrigerate an opened jar of commercially manufactured peanut butter, says the National Peanut Board. An opened jar of processed peanut butter will usually keep well for about 3 months when stored in a dark cupboard at normal room temperature. And the major benefit of pantry storage, of course, is that it allows the peanut butter to spread more easily. That said, if you’re not able to finish off the entire jar of peanut butter within a few months — or if your pantry tends to get extremely hot and humid — storing the opened jar in the refrigerator can help keep the peanut butter at optimum freshness longer. Once refrigerated, it will generally remain at good quality for an additional 3 to 4 months.Long-Lasting Produce Stock up and enjoy Your Questions Answered Steak that's changed color
Key Points
- No — it’s not necessary to refrigerate an opened jar of commercially manufactured peanut butter, says the National Peanut Board
- An opened jar of processed peanut butter will usually keep well for about 3 months when stored in a dark cupboard at normal room temperature
- Once refrigerated, it will generally remain at good quality for an additional 3 to 4 months
Related Foods
This information applies to: beef, butter, chicken, cranberry, eggs, ground beef, hamburger, ketchup, mustard, peanut butter, pie, potatoes, salad, shrimp, steak, stuffing, turkey
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cooking expiration freezing leftovers refrigeration safety storage thawing