How long can you keep it and is it a good idea to refridgerate it? Also can you freeze it and how would you do that? I had it for a while and did not get to use it as yet.

Properly handled from manufacturer to you and stored in a cool, dry environment Sweetex (hi-ratio) shortening is shelf stable for 12 months.

However, depending on handling, and how old the product is when you purchase it, the shelf life may be less.

For short term storage, refrigerating my Sweetex in food grade containers from Sam's worked well.

For long term storage, I have successfully frozen my Sweetex in the same food grade containers . Other members have portioned out the amount used in their "regular" b/c recipes into zip lock bags and stored that way (either in larger zip lock bags or hard sided containers).

HTH

P.S. Here are some hi-ratio American buttercream recipes to get you started:

http://www.cakecentral.com/cake-decorating-ftopict-633723-.html

Thanks for your response. I appreciate it.

You're very welcome.