Here's When You Should Replace Your Spices, According to McCormick

Ever made your favorite comfort meal and it just didn’t hit the spot? You followed the recipe, used all the right ingredients, but something felt off. Your spices might be past their prime!

Spices might seem like they last forever, but there’s a point when your garlic powder turns from aromatic to faint. When spices lose their potency, you'll end up using more than needed, which could mess with the flavor balance of your dish.

How to Check If Your Spices Are Still Fresh

Wondering if your spices have lost their punch? We talked to the experts at McCormick for tips on how to properly store spices and recognize when it’s time to toss them. They have some key signs to look out for.

The first thing to check is the smell. If your spices have little to no scent, they’re probably no longer fresh. Another simple way to tell is by looking at the 'best by' date on the label. While spices can be pricey, it’s good to know that, according to the USDA, most ground spices are good for 2-3 years, and whole spices last up to 4 years. If your spices aren’t packing a punch, they’re likely too old.

To keep your spices fresh, always measure with clean spoons. This helps avoid contaminating the containers and introducing bacteria.

How to Store Spices to Keep Them Fresh

McCormick shared some essential tips on the best ways to store your spices to prevent them from losing flavor quickly.

According to Hadar Cohen Aviram, Executive Chef and Senior Manager at McCormick, 'Spices should be kept away from extreme heat, moisture, and sunlight. Never store them above the stove, and always make sure the lids are tightly sealed to preserve their freshness.'

Avoid sprinkling spices directly into a steaming pot, as the humidity can cause ground spices to clump together. Plus, this helps you prevent accidental spills!

Organize your spices on a tiered spice rack for easy access and visibility. Keep your most-used spices at the front, and rotate others in to remind yourself of what’s on hand. If you ever forget, Chef Aviram recommends cleaning out your spice cabinet twice a year. Daylight Savings is a great reminder to check for expired or duplicate spices.

As we dive into spring cleaning, don’t forget to give your spice collection some attention. Ensure your jars and bottles are stored properly, and your recipes will thank you for it!