Should butter be stored in foil or plastic wrap?

Question

For storing butter in the fridge, is foil or plastic wrap the better choice? Discover which material best protects its flavor and freshness.

Answer 1

Butter should ideally be stored in its original packaging or wrapped tightly in wax paper or parchment paper, then placed in an airtight container in the refrigerator to protect it from light and odors. Foil is acceptable for short-term storage, but plastic wrap is not recommended as it can impart a plastic taste.

Detailed Explanation:

Butter is highly susceptible to absorbing odors and flavors from its surroundings. It also degrades when exposed to light and air. Therefore, proper storage is crucial to maintain its quality and taste. Here's a breakdown of why certain materials are better than others:

1. Original Packaging (Wax Paper/Parchment Paper): Butter is often sold wrapped in wax paper or parchment paper, which provides a good initial barrier against light and odors. If you're using the butter quickly, this is often sufficient.
2. Airtight Container: Placing the wrapped butter in an airtight container provides an additional layer of protection against odors and light. This is especially important if your refrigerator has strong-smelling foods.
3. Foil: Aluminum foil can be used for short-term storage. It blocks light effectively, but it's not as airtight as other options and can sometimes impart a metallic taste if the butter is stored for an extended period.
4. Plastic Wrap: Plastic wrap is generally not recommended for long-term butter storage. It's porous and can allow odors to penetrate. Furthermore, the plastic itself can sometimes impart an unpleasant taste to the butter.

Ultimately, the best approach is to use the original packaging or wrap the butter in wax paper or parchment paper and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tip:

Consider storing butter in the coldest part of your refrigerator, away from the door, where temperature fluctuations are more common. This will help extend its shelf life and maintain its quality.