Is it safe to store butter on the counter instead of the refrigerator?

Answer by  Xombicide (99)

Since butter is pasteurized, it's safe to leave your butter out on the counter in a covered dish. Not covering your butter can result in nasty bacteria or the risk of something unknown falling into it. However, you shouldn't leave out unpasteurized butter for risk of Staphylococcus contamination.

Answer by  Zetau (125)

It's safe until it goes bad, but it won't be dangerous. Butter will turn rancid when left out too long, so you'll know when to toss it. Covering it will not prevent bacteria. Any risk related to unpasteurized dairy products was existing when purchased.

Answer by  DevoutCatalyst (441)

Yup. Do it all the time. No Problems.

Answer by  Anonymous

Yeah its fine. we keep softened butter in a covered dish, and when we use it all, we get another package from the fridge. its great when you need the butter to be soft to spread on bread

Answer by  cdolezal (37)

It's perfectly fine to store butter on the counter. I grew up in a household that always had a butter dish of soft butter sitting out, and I've always done the same thing. I'm 57 years old, and I've never heard of any problems.

Answer by  catonem (38)

Yes, I have done it many of times. It just keeps it softer instead or being hard. I also cant ever remember my grandparents ever refriderating butter.