If you’re a fan of vegan butter, you’ve probably heard of Earth Balance. It’s a popular brand that offers a variety of plant-based butter substitutes. But how long does Earth Balance butter last? Let’s find out.
Understanding the Expiration Date
First things first, let’s talk about the expiration date on your Earth Balance butter. Like most food products, it comes with an expiration date printed on the packaging. This date indicates when the product is no longer at its best quality and flavor.
But here’s the catch: the expiration date is just a guideline, not a hard-and-fast rule. That means your Earth Balance butter could still be perfectly fine to use even after the expiration date has passed.
Factors Affecting Shelf Life
Several factors can affect how long your Earth Balance butter lasts. For instance, exposure to heat and light can cause it to spoil faster. Similarly, if you leave it open for extended periods or store it improperly, it will go bad much sooner than expected.
Another thing to consider is whether or not you’ve already used some of the butter. Once you break the seal and start using it, bacteria from your hands and other sources can contaminate it quickly.
How Long Can You Expect It to Last?
Now that we’ve gone over some of the factors that affect shelf life, let’s look at how long you can expect your Earth Balance butter to last under ideal conditions.
Generally speaking, unopened packages of Earth Balance should last around six months in the fridge or up to nine months in the freezer. However, if you’ve already opened it, you should try to use it within two weeks if stored in the fridge or one month if kept in the freezer.
Tips for Extending Shelf Life
If you want to extend your Earth Balance butter’s shelf life as much as possible, there are several things you can do:
- Store it in an airtight container
- Keep it away from heat and light
- Always use clean utensils when scooping out portions
- Don’t double-dip (this introduces bacteria)
- Freeze any unused portions
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, how long your Earth Balance butter lasts depends on several factors, such as storage conditions and usage habits. While there is an expiration date printed on the packaging, this is just a guide – not a hard-and-fast rule.
To get maximum shelf life from your vegan butter substitute, make sure to store it correctly and follow proper usage practices like using clean utensils and avoiding double-dipping.
By following these tips and guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious plant-based spreads for months at a time without worrying about spoilage.
