If you’ve ever stared down a jar of cinnamon wondering, “Do spices expire?”
We’ve got bad newsand an easy solution.
Honey, for example,never expires.
The same cant be said for spices.
(Im talking about you, cumin, nutmeg, and paprika.)
But do spices expire?
New York City-based registered dietitian
As time goes on, flavor and potency really diminish.
(Lets not forget about theproblem with bugs, too.)
Youd have to makethousands of wafflesto finish a whole jar before the spice loses its potency.
As much as I love a little cardamom here and there, thats impossible.
When do common spices expire?
Black pepper contains a key compound called alkaloid piperine, which has possible anti-inflammatory properties, Modell says.
Piperine has also been shown to help with the absorption of nutrients, such as beta-carotene and iron.
Oregano: 2-3 years
Want to add some flavor to a dish?
Reach for oregano which Modell notes is rich in antioxidants shown to neutralize free radicals.
New York City-based registered dietitian
The spice is also believed to have antimicrobial properties, she adds.
Cinnamon: 3-4 years
No spice rack is complete without cinnamon.
Paprika: 3-4 years
Paprika is another pantry mainstay that thankfully can last for years.
To do this, try the palm test.
However, if you do end up unknowingly consuming expired spices, theres no need to be alarmed.
How to keep spices fresh as long as possible
1.
Keep spices cool
Heat is like kryptonite to spices.
Opt for whole spices
Since ground spices go bad much more quickly, opt for whole spices.
(A good electric grinderor amortar and pestleis a great investment.)
The spices come sealed in recyclable aluminum cards, each with 12 peel-to-open pre-measured servings of 1/4 teaspoon.
We seal our spices using modified atmosphere technology, reads a recent Instagram caption.
Molecularly fresher spices, the company says.
Occo sources its spices from around the globe, using only organically grown products harvested within the past year.
All that said, although spices do expire, they have a relatively long shelf life.
However, you dont have to toss the old ones.
Instead, repurpose your spices by making potpourri.
Put that jar of nutmeg to use becausescience says its good for you.
And get your hands on thefive spices that will help you cook life a chef.
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