5 Ways to Store Spices for Maximum Freshness
By Editorial Team · June 2, 2026 · 4 min read
Ground spices lose their aroma faster than most people expect, usually within three to six months of opening the pack. The biggest culprits are light, heat and moisture, all of which break down the essential oils responsible for flavour.
Keep spice jars away from the stove and out of direct sunlight. A drawer or a cabinet away from the oven works far better than an open rack beside the hob.
Buy in quantities you can use within a season rather than stocking up for a full year. Whole spices, ground fresh as needed, hold their flavour considerably longer than pre-ground versions.
Reseal every bag or jar tightly after use, and consider transferring paper-packed spices into small airtight jars once opened.