How to Tell If Your Spices Have Expired
The shelf life of a spice is determined by the concentration of steam volatile oil. The higher the percentage, the longer the spice will last.
This oil remains in whole spices for a good period of time, from three to five years; some, like whole nutmeg, last even longer. Once we grind the spices, we have broken open the cell walls, the oils begin to dissipate, and the clock starts ticking. So we say the general rule of thumb for ground spices is one year.
This oil remains in whole spices for a good period of time, from three to five years; some, like whole nutmeg, last even longer. Once we grind the spices, we have broken open the cell walls, the oils begin to dissipate, and the clock starts ticking. So we say the general rule of thumb for ground spices is one year.
Even though some of our customers request ground herbs, we do not like to do this, as the flavor will most likely be gone in several months. Dried herbs are easy to grind yourself, so we recommend that you grind just what you need for that dish right before cooking.
Smell and taste. Fortunately, old spices will not make you sick, which is why you don't always see expiration dates on them. Old spices will just cease to deliver any flavor. Put a little in your mouth and give it a half minute. If you get nothing, it is time to replenish.
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