Peanut Butter
The answer
Opened conventional peanut butter lasts 2–3 months in the pantry or 6–9 months in the fridge.
Caution Natural (oil-separating) peanut butter should be refrigerated after opening — use within 2–3 months.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) 6–9 months safe window
Freezer (0°F) Not needed best quality
Pantry 2–3 months OK stored right
Discard Discard if it smells sharp, bitter, or like old oil — that’s rancidity.
By state & packaging
State Fridge Freezer
Conventional, opened, pantry 6–9 months —
Natural, opened, refrigerated 2–3 months —
Unopened — —
Signs it has gone bad
✕ Sharp, bitter, or paint-like smell
✕ Dry, hardened texture with dark oil
✕ Mold (rare) on the surface
FAQ
Is separated oil in peanut butter bad?
No — oil separation is normal in natural peanut butter. Stir it back in. Rancid smell is the discard sign.