In culinary uses, any of the above can help enhance both sweet and savory dishes.
For a refresher on all things fresh, check out our complete fresh herb storage and life-extending guide here.
How Long Are Spices Good for Once Opened?
Credit: Blaine Moats
Wondering “do spices go bad?”
(Salt is the only spice cabinet exception to this rule.
It should last a lifetime.)
Credit: Jason Donnelly
it’s possible for you to judge the freshness of any spice by the color and aroma.
Fresh spices tend to have a bright, rich color and a strong smell.
So how long are spices good for once opened?
Credit: Werner Straube
Our easy general rule of thumb: Replace dried herbs and spices once per year.
If you want to get more granular about your storing spices strategy, save this list.
(Alternatively, some concoctions likepickle recipesandmulled winecall for whole spices as-is.)
No specialty shop nearby?
The recipe testers in our Test Kitchen share dozens of spices daily.
Thanks to these methods to organize spices and herbs, they’re always a breeze to find.
Salt is the only flavor-enhancer that can stand up to the wild temperature fluctuations at that location.
Every other spice and herb else should go back to its “home” ASAP after use.
Select a storage system that works for your space.There’s no one “right” way.
In fact, we keep discovering new ideas.
Choose a technique that fits the amount of space in your kitchen or pantryand how you prefer to sort.
Just be sure to set a strategy and stick with it so everyone knows where to find the goods.
