Outdated spices? Here's how to make them work for you
Holiday cleaning also involves organizing kitchen cabinets. During this process, we check what we have in stock, what needs to be purchased, and often discover which products have expired. What should we do when it comes to spices? Here are some tips.
Spices often have very long shelf lives, and the date is usually visible on the packaging. However, even after this date has passed, spices don't necessarily need to be discarded. They are dry products that don't spoil easily. Bacteria don't grow on them, and they don't develop mould. Proper storage is crucial, as moisture can be particularly harmful to them.
not always destined for the trash bin
Let's be honest: when we store spices for a long time and their expiration date has passed, they gradually lose flavour, aroma, and colour, making it more challenging to season dishes effectively. However, this doesn't mean they automatically belong in the trash. To assess their condition, simply smell them and take a close look. They should be dry, free of clumps, and without threads indicating food moth larvae. The spices can still be used if their flavour is mild but still noticeable. It's advisable not to delay. If you have slightly expired aromatic spices, it's worth using them regularly in winter teas or infusions. They can also be used for baths.
When to throw them out
When you decide to dispose of spices, keep a few guidelines in mind.
- Compost. Herbal spices like oregano, basil, thyme, or parsley are suitable for composting. They break down naturally and enrich compost with nutrients.
- Organic waste. Spices should be placed in the organic waste bin.
- Mixed waste. As a last resort, spices can be thrown into general trash.
And what about the containers?
- Paper bags. Containers made entirely of paper should be placed in the paper recycling bin.
- Paper bags lined with foil. These need to be placed in the mixed waste bin.
- Plastic bags. Containers made solely of plastic should be disposed of in the metals and plastics bin.
- Jars. Glass containers can go into the glass recycling bin, but without lids. Metal or plastic lids should go into the yellow bin for metals and plastics. Jars containing expired spices should be disposed of in the black bin for mixed waste.
