Does Ghee Need to Be Refrigerated?

4 weeks ago

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Do you have a jar of ghee sitting in your kitchen and wondering if you need to refrigerate it? Or perhaps you’re not sure how long ghee lasts or if it goes bad? This article will answer all your questions about storing ghee, its shelf life, and whether it spoils.

Does Ghee Go Bad? How to Tell if Ghee Is Bad?

Ghee has a long shelf life and can last for a couple of years if stored properly. The expiration date on the label only guarantees the best flavor, but ghee can still be of good quality for several months after that date. However, there are a few signs that indicate it may have gone bad:

Rancid smell and taste: If your ghee smells sour instead of its usual milky-sweet aroma, or it tastes off, it’s likely rancid.
Mold or discoloration: If you see mold on the surface or any other unusual discoloration, it’s best to discard the ghee.
Change in quality: Ghee that is a few years old may not have the same smell and taste as fresh ghee. If the quality has deteriorated, it’s safer to dispose of it.

The reason ghee has a longer shelf life compared to other dairy products is that it doesn’t contain milk solids and has very little moisture.

How to Store Ghee? Does Ghee Need To Be Refrigerated?

Ghee doesn’t require refrigeration and can be stored in a pantry. However, if you want to prolong its quality, refrigerating it is advisable. Some sources suggest that ghee can be stored in the pantry, while others recommend refrigeration. The truth is, ghee is almost 100 percent milk fat, making it a stable fat that can be stored like coconut oil.

To store ghee properly, keep it in a dark place away from direct sunlight and ensure the lid is tightly sealed. If you make ghee at home, pour it into heatproof glass jars, allow them to cool, seal them tightly, and transfer them to the fridge. Freezing ghee is also an option for long-term storage.

Can You Freeze Ghee?

Freezing ghee is an excellent option if you have a surplus that you won’t need for a while. Here’s how you can do it:

Choose a container suitable for freezing, such as a plastic airtight container or freezer bags.
If you only use ghee occasionally, divide your supply into smaller portions.
Label the containers or bags if desired.
Place the ghee in the freezer.

Freezing ghee doesn’t require any additional steps, and you can defrost it overnight in the fridge when needed.

How Long Does Ghee Last?

Ghee maintains its quality until the best-by date on the label, which is typically one to two years from jarring. With proper care, it can still be of good quality for months after that date. Once you open a jar of ghee for the first time, it’s best to consume its contents within six months for optimal quality.

Remember that the best-by date indicates the peak quality of ghee, and it doesn’t necessarily mean it will spoil immediately afterward. Storing ghee in the fridge or freezer is a better option for long-term storage, with the latter ensuring its safety indefinitely.

Different manufacturers may have specific recommendations for the shelf life of open ghee. Some suggest using it within three months of opening, while others suggest following the date on the label. To be on the safe side, using refrigerated ghee within six months of opening is a good rule of thumb.

For more information on ghee, visit the BDK Restaurant website.