How Often Should You Replace Spices in Your Cupboards?
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Spice Storage
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It can be better to store spices in boxes. Spices, once exposed to oxygen, can begin to lose potency and flavor. The BBC recommends storing spices in an airtight container, in the dark or at least away from direct sunlight. Although it is acceptable to store them in glass jars, it is often better to store spices in boxes or drawers, away from heat sources like the oven. Stored in this way, the BBC reports, they should be replaced every six to 12 months.
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Years Instead Of Months
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Nutmeg often comes as a whole spice. West Virginia University claims you can keep whole spices for two to five years and ground spices for six months to twp years, if they stored properly, but that it is better to use whole spices and grind them as needed to retain potency.
Bottom Line
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Grinding spices as they are needed may keep them fresh longer. If you have ground spices they may lose flavor quickly, and can begin to deteriorate after six months, but they may still be usable for years, still whole spices last much longer, if stored properly in a dark and cool environment. If your spices no longer smell strong, or their color has faded, it may be time to replace them.
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- Photo Credit spices 1 image by BlueMiniu from Fotolia.com spices image by citylights from Fotolia.com nutmegs image by Aussiebloke from Fotolia.com antique hand-mill for a grinding of spices image by pavel siamionov from Fotolia.com
