How do you know if your peanut butter has gone bad?

1. Smell: Fresh peanut butter should have a pleasant nutty aroma. If it has a sour, musty, or rancid smell, it's likely spoiled.

2. Taste: Good peanut butter should taste freshly roasted, salty, and slightly sweet. If it tastes bitter or rancid, it's probably old.

3. Texture: Fresh peanut butter should be creamy and spreadable. If it has become dry, crumbly, or oily (oil separation on top), it's likely past its prime.

4. Color: Fresh peanut butter should be consistent in color, usually ranging from light brown to deep amber. If it has developed darker patches or become discolored, it could be a sign of spoilage.

5. Expiration Date: Always check the expiration or "best before" date on the peanut butter packaging. It's a good guideline, but it's not always an exact indicator of spoilage.

If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the peanut butter. Consuming spoiled peanut butter can cause foodborne illnesses.

Additional Tip: Store your peanut butter in a cool, dry place, preferably in the pantry or a cupboard. Avoid exposing it to heat, direct sunlight, or temperature fluctuations.