Expiration & Storage Tips
When does vegan butter expire?
Vegan butter usually lasts for around 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator once opened and used, as long as it's properly stored. If unopened, you can rely on the 'use by' date printed on the packaging. If you're freezing vegan butter, it can last up to 6 to 9 months. However, remember that its texture might change after freezing and defrosting, though it will be still perfect for cooking and baking.
How do you tell if vegan butter is bad?
Detecting if vegan butter has gone bad can be a bit trickier than with dairy butter due to its different formulation. However, pay attention to its texture and color; it should still have a similar consistency to fresh butter and should not be excessively hard or overly soft. Any significant discoloration can be a warning sign. Finally, a sniff test can also help; if it smells stale or unpleasant, it is likely spoiled.
Tips for storing vegan butter to extend shelf life
• Vegan butter should always be kept in an airtight container or its original packaging and stored in the refrigerator.
• Keep vegan butter away from strong odors to prevent it from absorbing them.
• If the butter comes in a small tub, try not to dip into it with dirty or wet utensils to maintain its freshness longer.
• If you want to freeze vegan butter, wrap it in freezer-safe plastic wrap or foil and then place it in a zipper bag, pushing as much air out as possible before sealing.
• When you want to defrost frozen vegan butter, simply leave it in the refrigerator until it reaches a spreadable consistency.