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Step 1
Look closely at the spice for any signs of caking. Caking indicates moisture exposure, which likely means that the spice is old and stale.
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Step 2
Observe the color of the spice. If you note any fading in the color of the spice, the spice has likely lost flavor potency and you should replace it.
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Step 3
Crush or rub the spice in the palm of your hand and smell. If the spice doesn't smell strong and vibrant, discard the stale spice.
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Step 4
Taste some of the spice. A spice that doesn't taste bold and flavorful has gone stale. Replace this spice with a fresh one.
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Step 5
Read the expiration date on the spice bottle, jar or canister. Most newer spices have such a date printed on the container, and you can use this date as a guideline when determining if a spice has gone stale.
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Step 6
Use the McCormick fresh tester online to determine the age of McCormick spices. If you are checking McCormick spices for freshness and don't see a best by date on the spice container, the online fresh tester comes in handy. Just enter the code from the bottom of the spice container and the online fresh tester helps you determine the spice's age and expiration date.
