How long does ghee last?
In the fridge, ghee keeps for 1 to 2 years from purchase. In the pantry, it keeps for 6 to 8 months from purchase.
6 to 8 months
from purchase
1 to 2 years
from purchase
No guideline
Does ghee go bad?
Yes. The fridge time above is the window USDA gives for good quality; after it, ghee may still be safe for a short while but quality drops and spoilage signs start. The date on the package is the maker's quality promise; the times here count from purchase unless marked "from the package date".
Two numbers to keep in mind: a fridge at 40 F (4 C) or below, and no more than 2 hours at room temperature (1 hour above 90 F / 32 C) for anything perishable.
How to tell ghee has gone bad
General signs for dairy products & eggs, the group USDA lists ghee under.
- Sour, sharp smell from milk or yogurt that was mild before
- Mould on cheese that is not part of the recipe
- Eggs that float in a bowl of water instead of sinking
- Slimy or watery texture on soft cheese or yogurt
- Yellowing or watery separation showing up in milk
More on dairy products & eggs. The times above are quality guidelines, not safety limits; food that shows these signs goes out regardless of the date.
How long do other dairy products & eggs last?
Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset (public domain). How we decode the data.