Butter in one-pound blocks can be cut into smaller portions, repackaged and frozen for future use. To prevent a type of spoilage called rancidity, protect butter from heat, light and air. Rancid butter has an unpleasant taste and smell. To prevent rancidity, never store butter at room temperature. For ease in spreading, remove butter from the refrigerator 10 to 15 minutes before using it.
Butter absorbs odors from other foods rapidly.
To prevent flavor changes, keep butter wrapped in moisture, vapor-proof material or in tightly covered containers. For refrigerator storage, leave butter in its original wrapper. Higher temperatures cause off-flavors and unpleasant odors to develop. Opened portions of butter should be refrigerated in a covered dish. Butter should not be stored in a butter keeper longer than two days.