It cannot be denied that spices are an integral part of preparing various dishes. At home we often have large supplies of herbs and other aromatic additives that we use regularly. However, there are spices that we use very rarely and then we may wonder how long they stay fresh. Can spices expire? Yes, but in a different way than we think.
Can spices expire? Check how long they can be stored
Spices are powdered, dried products that have a really long shelf life on the packaging. All because they are very durable and resistant to deterioration. The shortest expiration date is for dried herbs and ranges from one to three years. This category includes, among others, rosemary, basil and thyme. The next group are powdered spices whose expiration date is two to three. We’re talking about chili powder, ground cinnamon and garlic. The last category of spices includes whole peppercorns, coriander and mustard. They will last up to 4 years.
Can they expire during this time? Of course, if they are stored incorrectly. It is very rare for mold to appear on this type of products, but if we notice it, we must immediately throw the spice into the trash. However, they usually expire differently than other products. Most often, they simply dry out, losing all their flavor, color and aroma. Then they are not dangerous to health, but they also have no properties and become useless.
How to store opened spices? Popular spice containers will not be a good solution
Spices should be stored in a specific place so that they retain their freshness and flavor for a long time. Immediately after opening, it is worth protecting them appropriately. We often pour spices into glass, transparent containers, which is unfortunately a mistake. Choose ceramic or glass, but opaque containers. Thanks to them, the sun’s rays will not negatively affect the taste and aroma of the spices. Alternatively, you can protect the original packaging in which you bought the spice. Just tie them with a rubber band or a special clip. Spices prepared in this way should be stored away from heat sources such as stove, oven and dishwasher. It is better to put them in a cabinet or drawer where there is no moisture. Thanks to this, they will retain their color, taste, aroma and freshness for a really long time and will not be exposed to mold formation.
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
