The need to refrigerate butter depends on several factors, including the type of butter and the ambient temperature of your environment. Generally, butter is a dairy product that contains a significant amount of fat, which helps to preserve it and makes it less susceptible to spoilage compared to other dairy products like milk or cream.
Unsalted butter: Unsalted butter has a lower water content than salted butter, which makes it less prone to spoilage. If you plan to use unsalted butter within a relatively short period, you can leave it at room temperature in a covered butter dish or a butter keeper. This allows the butter to stay soft and spreadable. However, if your room temperature is very warm or if you don't plan to use it within a week or so, it's safer to refrigerate unsalted butter to extend its shelf life.
Salted butter: Salt acts as a preservative and helps inhibit the growth of bacteria in butter. Salted butter can be left at room temperature for a shorter period compared to unsalted butter. Still, if you use it frequently, you can keep it at room temperature in a covered butter dish for a week or two. Otherwise, refrigerating salted butter will ensure it stays fresh for a more extended period.
Clarified butter (ghee): Since clarified butter has had its milk solids removed, it has a much longer shelf life and does not require refrigeration. You can keep ghee at room temperature in a sealed container for several months without any issues.
Ultimately, the decision to refrigerate butter depends on how quickly you plan to use it and your personal preferences. If you choose to leave butter at room temperature, make sure to use a covered container to protect it from dust and other contaminants. If you're unsure about leaving butter out, refrigeration is always a safe option to prevent any potential spoilage.