I have a kitchen's worth of spices at least five years old. They still smell and taste OK, just wondering when to throw them out and get fresh ones.
2006-07-09 07:50:29 · 10 answers · asked by pksdabombdj 1 in Food & Drink ➔ Cooking & Recipes
As a general rule, herbs and ground spices will retain freshness for about 1 year before beginning to deteriorate. Whole spices will last up to 3 years.
2006-07-09 08:08:23 · answer #1 · answered by southernserendipiti 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I do the same thing. I have all these jars that I may never use! They should package spices smaller so there isn't so much that goes to waste.
Here is info I found:
1. What is the shelf life of spices? Will freezing make them last longer?
Spices and herbs will vary in their shelf life. (see below) Freezing will prevent spoilage but will not eliminate the element that destroys flavor: Oxygen.
The volatile or essential oil from a spice should be aromatic when the cap is removed. If not it is best to replace the spice or herb.
Store spices away from a kitchen range or other high heat source.
Store away from high humidity areas like the dishmachine, refrigerator, freezer or steamer.
Spices that are primarily seeds and berries, properly stored, may last 2 to 3 years, if the container is always tightly closed after use.
Ground spices and leafy herbs are more fragile, when stored properly the flavor will be evident for about 6 months to one year.
2006-07-09 07:55:02 · answer #2 · answered by poppet 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you notice yourself having to adjust recipes to add more spices, it's probably time to replace the spice.
Shelf life on spices vary; if you notice colour, flavour, or scent decreasing, that spice is on the way out. If you've kept your spices well sealed and in a good temperature range, they're probably fine.
Now, some things, like cream of tartar, arrowroot powder, baking soda and baking powder, you want to basically replace after 2 years since the chemical properties need to be stable for successful cooking. But savoury spices will just lose potency.
2006-07-09 07:56:46 · answer #3 · answered by Fed_UP_with_work. 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Spices should be used within 2 years of packaging..
2006-07-09 07:53:27 · answer #4 · answered by GrlNamedJane 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You should DEFINITELY get fresh ones! After 3 months, the flavour begins to deteriorate.
2006-07-09 07:54:10 · answer #5 · answered by cyanne2ak 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hello,
It depends on the spice...
But most are ready for the garbage after nine months...
At least that's when i toss em...
2006-07-09 07:58:23 · answer #6 · answered by ? 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Toss them. They have lost alot of flavor actually. Its best to replace about every 6 months
2006-07-09 07:52:57 · answer #7 · answered by KathyS 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
generally a year
2006-07-09 07:53:31 · answer #8 · answered by Lucy 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Once they are opened they should be used or thrown away in 6 months.
2006-07-09 08:03:33 · answer #9 · answered by Chef Froggy 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Normally they are good for a year.
2006-07-09 07:58:56 · answer #10 · answered by ramall1to 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋