How to Store Fresh Spices

Spices can lose some of their potency if not stored properly, while maintaining freshness can add tremendous flavor when cooking. Learning to store spices correctly will allow consumers to buy larger packages of spices at a cheaper cost because of the knowledge that the spices will last for an extended period of time. To maintain freshness, spices should avoid too much contact with air, light, heat and humidity.

Keeping Spices Fresh

• 1

  Split larger containers of spices into smaller portions and place into sealable bags. Make sure the bags are as airtight as possible.

• 2

  Spread the spice within the bag with your fingers to resemble a squared pancake.

• 3

  Place the bags into a plastic container by stacking each bag onto each other. Repeat for all spices, and label the container.

• 4

  Refrigerate the container or place in the freezer to keep spices freshest the longest. Keep away from anything that might be wet because this could ruin the spices. The spices should be good for up to six months.

• 5

  If lacking room in the freezer or refrigerator, find a cool and preferably shaded area in your kitchen for your spices. Places such as a cabinet drawer or regular drawer are best.

• 6

  If you need to store in open storage such as a pantry shelf, using tin cans to hold the spices is recommended.