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The country crock is a spread that starts with farm-grown ingredients used to make buttery perfection. The ingredients are plant-based oils, water, and a touch of oil. The company has been in operation for over 30 years, partnering with farmers in producing just the best spread for its consumers. You are probably wondering whether country Crock goes terrible.
Does Country Crock Go Bad?
Surprisingly, country crock can go bad, and the shelf life may be shorter than you think. Unopened margarine will remain good for around four months past the printed expiry date. Opened will only stay fresh well refrigerated for about one month and last at room temperature for approximately two weeks. Thus it may not be advisable to purchase country crock in large amounts unless you consume it in about one month.
How Can I Store Country Crock?
Country crock should permanently be sealed in the refrigerator. Exposure to air, light, and heat can oxidize the fats in the spread causing spoilage. Due to its temperature sensitivity, it’s better to keep it in the fridge where the temperature is more relaxed and stable. Freezing the spread is an excellent way to extend its shelf life. The country crock can stay good in the freezer for up to a year. Ensure the packages are tightly sealed; you may even seal the spread in freezer bags for extra protection.
Country crock will freeze with no noticeable texture change though it may separate a bit after thawing. This will not impact the texture or flavor, and the spread can be mixed back together and used as intended. To thaw the spread, leave it in the freezer overnight.
Signs That Your Country Crock Has Gone Bad
Sight and smell are the best indicators that the spread has spoiled. Fresh country crock will appear smooth and soft and have a pleasant smell. While when it is spoiled, it will have a darker, rigid, or waxy appearance. It will smell like soap, paint, or old microwaveable popcorn. Another sign of spoilage is droplets of liquid that have reached the surface of the spread. The fresh spread should be thoroughly mixed and won’t separate. Once it starts to separate and drops into liquid form, the spread is unfit for consumption. An exception to this is a spread that has been frozen. Frozen margarine may separate upon thawing.
If you leave a tub of country crock on the counter overnight, it may start to separate. Tubs are less stable than sticks and more sensitive to temperature as they are designed to be more spreadable.
Conclusion
The USDA and FDA don’t take a firm stance on how long the spread lasts, and other experts recommend only leaving butter out of the fridge for one or two days maximum. This means you should not be afraid to leave your spread out for a few hours for softening. But for your spread to be safe for long, it should be salted and pasteurized. Keeping the spread in an airtight container like a crock makes it last longer at room temperature. Enjoy your country crock spread today while ensuring you store it well to stay fresh for longer.
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