Exactly how long can you keep spices before they need to be replaced with new ones? I have heard 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. I have a spice rack and my spices are about 5 months old and I am wanting to know when I should throw them away and get new ones.

I think it depends on the spices actually. Most of my spices don't last longer than 6 months, so I'm not too worried about it.

I keep mine about a year if not used up by then I replace

Most dried herbs and spices will keep for several years if kept in a cool, dry, and dark place with a tight lid. These days most packages of herbs, and spices are labeled with a "use by date".

This is the time of the year to start checking on your spices and herbs for all that holiday cooking and baking!


Your herbs should have good color - if they are faded - toss them.

Smell your cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, cloves, coriander and cardamom to ensure freshness and if you need to take a second whiff - that's a sign you better replace the spice. The aroma should jump out at you.

And you want the perfect flavor for your meals - always use fresh herbs and spices.