Does Coconut Butter Go Bad?

I love adding a spoonful of coconut butter to my morning smoothie or my favorite snack bar recipes, and I know that some of you do, too. Rich and creamy, coconut butter is a great way to get all the benefits of consuming a coconut in a delicious and convenient form. But how long does it last? I’ve heard all sorts of things about how long I can keep coconut butter – but I didn’t really get it, so I decided to dig a little deeper. So, does coconut butter go bad?

If you don’t ensure your coconut butter is stored correctly, it won’t last as long and might even go bad. Coconut butter can last long if appropriately stored in a cool and dry place – store your coconut butter away from sunlight, heat, and moisture, and check the expiration date before consuming it. 

In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned about the shelf life of coconut butter, whether store-bought or homemade. With these answers and more in hand, you can feel confident stocking your pantry with this versatile treat!

How Long Does Coconut Butter Last?

When it comes to how long coconut butter lasts, that all depends on the type of coconut butter you purchase and how you store it. 

Store-bought coconut butter typically has preservatives, so it can last up to a year at room temperature. In contrast, homemade coconut butter has no preservatives and needs to be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, where it can remain fresh for up to 4 months or 6 months, respectively. 

Even after the expiration date has passed, if your store-bought coconut butter still looks and smells okay without any signs of spoilage (like mold or discoloration), you should have no problem using it! 

Now, let’s have a look at how long coconut butter can last at room temperature, in the fridge, and in the freezer!

At Room Temperature

Regarding coconut butter going bad, the most crucial factor to consider is storage – as with all food products, you’ll want to store your coconut butter in an airtight container at room temperature. 

This will ensure that the butter stays fresh for a longer period. Coconut butter will typically last about one year to up to 15 months if unopened at room temperature or between 6 and 12 months if stored properly.

However, if you live in a warm climate and leave your coconut butter out on the counter for extended periods of time, it may not last as long. To maximize my coconut butter’s shelf life, I always make sure to store it in a cool and dry place with minimal exposure to direct sunlight or heat. 

Additionally, storing it in an opaque container rather than a clear jar or container will help protect it from UV rays and other light sources that can damage the delicate oils in the product.

In the Fridge

When it comes to storing coconut butter, the best place is the refrigerator. You might wonder how long coconut butter lasts in the fridge after opening it. 

The answer is usually between six and twelve months.

Storing coconut butter in the refrigerator helps stabilize its texture and consistency as well as prevents oxidation from temperature swings. However, it can become quite hard when stored in the fridge due to its fat content. To soften it up again and make it easier to spread, just let the jar sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before using.

In the Freezer

Storing coconut butter in the freezer is a great way to ensure that it lasts for an extended period of time. Usually, it can last up to a year or more in the freezer. However, it’s essential to store it properly to ensure that it stays fresh.

When freezing coconut butter, place it in an airtight container or bag and label the package with the date you froze it. This way, you’ll be able to keep track of how long your coconut butter has been in storage. It’s also best to use your frozen coconut butter within a year for optimal freshness and flavor.

How Long Does Homemade Coconut Butter Last?

If you’ve decided to try your hand at making homemade coconut butter, then you probably want to know how long it lasts, right?

Well, depending on the ingredients you use in your concoction and how it’s stored, homemade coconut butter can have a fairly long shelf-life.

Here’s what you need to know:

• If you make coconut butter without preservatives, the shelf-life is shorter than if preservatives you add them in.
• If you store it appropriately at room temperature in an airtight container, homemade coconut butter can last approximately two weeks at room temperature and up to two months in the fridge.
• Coconut butter will last longer if stored in the refrigerator or freezer; the cooler temperature slows deterioration. When stored in airtight containers in these places, homemade coconut butter can last for up to six months.
• As with most food products, if there are any changes in texture or color or if you detect any off odors coming from your coconut butter, discard it and make a fresh batch.

Is Coconut Butter Good After the Expiration Date?

The short answer is yes – coconut butter will still be safe to eat after its expiration date. However, the taste and texture may change over time, so if you’re looking for the best flavor, it’s best to use it before expiration. According to the USDA, the expiration dates are not safety dates, as they usually refer to a product having the best quality.

As long as your coconut butter is stored correctly, it will last for up to a year or even two after opening. For best results, make sure to store your coconut butter in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.