How to Check the Freshness of Dried Herbs and Spices?

Do you stock bulk supply of dried herbs and spices? To ensure the quality and freshness, it’s best to check regularly. How to do that? Below is a step-by-step guide for you to follow:

Step #1 – Do a visual inspection

The first thing you can do to assess the freshness of your dried herbs and spices is to do a visual inspection. If kept in tightly sealed jars open them and look for these signs:

  • Leafy dried herbs have varying colors. If you noticed that the colors have started to fade or appear dull, then, this means you need to replace them soon. For example, the tarragon even when dried has greenish colour than rosemary. If the tarragon leaves looked pale, might as well discard them right away.
  • Spices like paprika and chili powder appear in red colour, then, eventually turn into brownish colour depending on how long you will store them.

Step #2 – Crush and smell a small portion of dried herbs and spices

Another effective way to assess the freshness of your stored dried herbs and spices by getting a small portion, crush and smell. If the produced smell is no longer strong and aromatic, it simply means they lose potency. Of course, an exception to this rule applies to types of whole spices like cinnamon sticks and peppercorns.

Step #3 – Compare the aroma produced

A newly bought packet of dried herbs may produce a distinct aroma as compared to a packet stored for months. I’m sure you will smell the difference in the aroma when you do a comparison. Any packaging of dried herbs or spices that have been stored for a year or more needs to be discarded and replaced.

Step #4 – Read the expected shelf life

According to the wholesale spices suppliers, the shelf life of dried herbs and spices may vary. Some have a shorter shelf life than others. However, quality dried herbs and spices provide a longer shelf life than others that haven’t passed quality standards from harvesting down to processing phase.

Step #5 – Spices only lose strength over time

Unlike herbs, spices only lose strength over time, but can still be used for cooking. Among the spices in their whole form last longer than the powdered counterparts. Whole peppercorns, nutmeg, cinnamon sticks and whole seeds (cumin, cardamom and coriander) are among the spices that have longer shelf life and stronger aroma.

Step #6 – Store properly dried herbs and spices

To enjoy the freshness of bought dried herbs and spices in bulk store them properly in sealed containers. Avoid placing them in areas with direct heat or sunlight exposure because their natural colors will fade. For spices, better store them in airtight sealed jars made from glass to preserve oil content.

If you want assurance that you only purchase top quality dried herbs and spices in Australia, go and buy from accredited wholesale spice suppliers like Takin, a reliable wholesaler of fine food products. You may visit their official website to check on their wide range of dried herbs and spices collections.

For more Information about Herbs, Visit Takin Today!

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