🌼 Spring is in the air, and it's the perfect time to refresh your spice pantry!
Do you know what spices' biggest enemy is? TIME. Over time, they lose their mojo and turn into flavorless dust. You end up having to add a ton to your meals just to get a hint of flavor, and even then, it's kinda meh when it should be packing a punch. Spices don't really go "bad" in the traditional sense of being unsafe to consume, unless they get moldy or cross-contaminated. So, as long as you use clean utensils and go through your stock regularly, your spices will remain safe and delicious.
Here are some handy tips and advice to keep your spices fresh and flavorful:
How do I keep my spices fresh?
We're confident in our resealable pouches; however, if you choose to transfer them, we suggest using airtight glass jars with rubber seals and storing them in a cool, dark place.
While shaker tops are convenient, they may not provide a tight seal, so we recommend avoiding them for storage.
We know spices create a beautiful rainbow display, but try not to keep them where temperatures fluctuate and they are exposed to light.
How long will my spices last?
It varies depending on the spice. Ground spices typically have a shorter shelf life compared to whole spices. Once spices are ground, their oils start to oxidize, making them age quicker.
Peppercorns and hard seeds like nutmeg can last up to a year when stored correctly.
Herbs have a higher moisture content and lower oil content, making their flavor more delicate. For peak flavor, we recommend using dried herbs within six months of purchase.
Don't worry 😊 we have zero tolerance for old spice, and we print the pack date on our label for you to easily keep track at home.
Signs it's time to let go?
Trust your nose! If your spices no longer have a strong aroma, it's time to replace them. A lack of smell means the flavor isn't as strong. Also, watch out for any fading in color or sun bleaching, as this can result in duller spices.
Please Don’t
❌ Freeze your spices. The moisture in freezers can lead to clumping. Additionally, fluctuating temperatures can result in flavor loss, freezer burn, and overall can change the texture once thawed again. Overall, freezing spices can shorten their shelf life and diminish their potency when used in cooking.
Give your spice pantry the spring cleaning it deserves, and let your senses guide you to fresh and flavorful culinary adventures! 🍽️🌿
