Does anybody else use a butter bell? Have you had any problems?

[hlthe2b]

1. I've thought about it--my grandmother did many years ago...

But she went through it far more quickly than I ever would, so I am reluctant. The airtight seal with a change of water does extend the safety outside the refrigerator for several days and even longer at cooler room temps (considerably cooler than 80F) so, I think many would be able to use it effectively and safely.

If you use non-butter spreads, the safety is less clear using a butter bell since the water content is different for these spreads and a differing spoilage profile is present. Since I use Earth Balance most often, I haven't tried one. As to the latter, I will say leaving these spreads out at room temperature quickly becomes a mold issue--even if you are careful never to reuse a knife or spreader in it. So, I do think the plant-based spreads go in the refrigerator regardless.