Does Ghee Need to Be Refrigerated?

Ghee, also known as clarified butter, is a staple in many households, particularly in Indian cuisine. Its rich flavor and versatility makes it a favourite item for cooking and even for medicinal purposes in Ayurveda. But one question that often comes up is: Does ghee need to be refrigerated? In this blog, we will explore if ghee needs to be refrigerated or not, some storage tips and which ghee gives you the best health benefits.

Shelf Life of Ghee

The shelf life of ghee depends on how one stores it. There are some points to be taken into consideration when storing ghee:

Room Temperature – The best Cow and Buffalo Ghee can stay fresh for up to 1 year when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Refrigerated – When ghee is refrigerated, its shelf life can increase to more than a year.

Does Ghee need to be refrigerated?

Ghee does not always need to be refrigerated because it has a low moisture content and high fat composition. However, there are some external factors that might affect it:

Climate – During summer, the heat can make ghee go bad faster than usual. Refrigerating ghee in hot and humid temperatures can prevent it from spoiling easily.
Frequent Use – If ghee is not used frequently, storing it in a refrigerator can be better for it to remain fresh for a longer time.

How to store ghee properly at room temperature?

To store ghee properly, the following tips can be helpful:

Use an Airtight Container – Store ghee in a clean, dry and airtight container. This prevents the ghee from spoiling quickly.
Keep in a dark place – Keep your ghee containers in a cold, dark place away from direct sunlight. The sunlight can degrade the fat in the ghee.
Use a clean spoon – Always use a clean and dry spoon when scooping out the ghee.
Refrigerate – if you do not regularly use ghee, it is better to store it in the refrigerator to make it last longer.

Benefits of proper storage

Following all the storage tips will benefit the ghee in the following ways:

Freshness: It keeps the ghee fresh and prevents it from getting a weird flavour or odour.
Nutrition: When stored properly, the vitamins and fats that are essential to the body are preserved.
Cost Effective: When the ghee is stored properly, the shelf life extends and there is less wastage.

Common myths about ghee

Myth: Ghee spoils quickly without refrigeration.

Fact: Due to the low moisture content in ghee, it lasts for a long time naturally.

Myth: Storing ghee in plastic containers is okay.

Fact: Plastic can have harmful chemicals, especially during the summer seasons. Glass or stainless steel are always a better choice.

FAQs

How do I know if ghee has gone bad?

Look for changes in color, texture, or smell. Rancid ghee may have a sour or unpleasant odour.

Can I freeze ghee?

Yes, freezing ghee is an excellent option for long-term storage, and it does not affect its quality.

How long can I store ghee without refrigeration?

When stored properly in a cool, dark place, ghee can last up to 6 months without refrigeration.

Where can I find the Best Desi Ghee Brand in Hyderabad?

Pravarsha Dairy provides the best cow and buffalo ghee in Hyderabad. It is organic, fresh and authentic to give you the best quality nutrients.

Conclusion

Ghee is one of the most versatile and long-lasting dairy products, and its proper storage ensures you enjoy its rich flavor and health benefits for months. While ghee doesn’t require refrigeration under normal circumstances, storing it in the fridge can be a prudent choice, especially in warmer climates or for long-term use.

Pravarsha Dairy delivers the finest quality ghee which is made with the utmost care. Our cow ghee and buffalo ghee offers a perfect blend of rich flavour and nutrition.