Your complete guide to storing peanut butter properly in New Zealand's unique climate.
At Gainuter, we pour our passion into crafting the perfect jar of peanut butter. To make sure you enjoy every last spoonful, here's our guide to keeping it fresh here in Aotearoa.
Where you store your peanut butter really comes down to what kind you've chosen and how quickly you plan to eat it.
These jars contain a touch of vegetable oil to prevent separation, making them perfectly happy in a cool, dark pantry for about 2-3 months after opening. If you're a household that takes a bit longer to get through a jar, popping it in the fridge will keep it in top shape for up to 9 months.
These blends are just peanuts and salt, the way nature intended. Because there are no stabilisers, the natural peanut oils will separate over time. Our recommendation for natural butters in New Zealand is to store them in the fridge. This keeps the oil separation to a minimum and ensures a fresh taste for up to 3-4 months. Given New Zealand's often humid climate, especially during summer in the upper North Island, the fridge is the safest bet for freshness.
Follow these expert recommendations to maximise the freshness and quality of your Gainuter peanut butter.
It's tempting to go straight in with the knife you've just used, but crumbs from your toast can introduce moisture and bacteria. Always use a clean, dry knife or spoon to keep your jar pristine.
When you first open a natural peanut butter, give the separated oil a thorough stir back through the paste. Storing the jar upside down for a day before you open it can make this first stir much easier!
Oxygen is the enemy of freshness. Always make sure the lid is screwed on tightly after each use to protect the flavour and texture.
Peanut butter is pretty resilient, but it won't last forever. Here are the signs that it's time for a new jar:
The most reliable sign is the smell. If it has a sharp, bitter, or paint-like odour, it has gone rancid. Fresh peanut butter should smell nutty and inviting.
If it becomes extremely dry, hard, or gritty (even after a good stir), it's past its best.
This is rare, but if you see any signs of mould or dark discolouration, discard the entire jar immediately.
Browse our full range of premium peanut butters, from creamy classics to crunchy delights.
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