Store spices in airtight containers to preserve their flavor.
Spices, whether they are fresh or dried, spoil quickly if not packaged correctly and pose health risks with the potential of growing mold or harmful bacteria. When spices are not properly packaged, they are also vulnerable to losing their flavor. Spices need to be packaged and stored in an airtight container, whether it's glass, plastic or stainless steel, to maintain optimum freshness. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Instructions
Package Spices
1. Rinse spices in warm water, for fresh spices. Skip to Step 3 for dry spices.
2. Dry the spices with a paper towel, if packaging fresh spices. Ground or dried spices do not need to be dried with a paper towel. Handling dried spices too much can damage them.
3. Put the spices into an airtight container. This container should have a lid that clicks or screws on. The lid must not leak. Put each type of spice in its own container. Mixing dried and fresh spices in a container can be hazardous to your health.
4. Label each container. Use a permanent marker or a label to write the name down. If using a label, hold the label in place on the container with a clear piece of tape. Write the name of each spice in the front or top of the container.
5. Store the spices in a dry place that's away from sunlight. Spices can clump or spoil when they are stored in a wet place. Direct sunlight may fade the color of the spices. SpiceBarn.com recommends storing cayenne pepper, chili powder, and paprika in the refrigerator to retain the color longer.
Tags: fresh spices, airtight container, dried spices, flavor Spices, Package Spices, paper towel