How to store your spices : Our ultimate guide

Why properly storing your spices is essential?

Impact on freshness and flavor

Spices owe their intense aromas to volatile essential oils—fragrant substances that easily evaporate. Over time, these oils diminish, resulting in reduced flavour and aroma.

Improper storage speeds up this deterioration. Fortunately, a few simple practices can help maintain the freshness and flavours of your spices longer.

Whole vs. Ground Spices: What’s the difference?

• Whole spices preserve better because their essential oils are protected within their natural shells—think peppercorns like Kampot pepper or Tonka beans.
• Ground spices lose their aromas faster as they’re exposed to air.

Whole spices are better preserved because they keep their protective envelope, so if you have the opportunity, always opt for this version and grind them at the last moment.

If possible, invest in a peppermill, preferably with a ceramic mechanism, to grind your spices as you go along. You can also find other quality mills on the market, suitable for whole peppercorns.

Some peppercorns, however, are not suitable for mills, such as salt-fermented peppercorns or dehydrated peppercorns, which are ready to use.

Factors affecting spice storage

Keep spices away from light

Exposure to UV rays degrades the aromatic compounds in spices. That’s why we recommend storing your spices away from direct light. Spices such as turmeric and brightly coloured spices in general are very sensitive to light.

Prevent moisture exposure

Humidity creates a favourable environment for the development of bacteria, which can lead to the formation of mould and lumps. Exposure of spices to damp areas should be avoided at all costs.

It’s best not to store your spices above your hob or near your oven. The fumes from cooking your dishes can seep into your spice sachets and dampen your spices, especially powdered spices such as turmeric or paprika.

Control Temperature

Exposure to excessive heat can alter the nutritional and flavour properties of spices. Excessive heat reduces the quality of the spice and makes it vulnerable to external attack. We recommend keeping spices away from the hob and storing them at room temperature.

Practical tips for spice storage

Where and how to store spices?

Store spices in dry, dark, cool areas. Ideal locations include closed cupboards or drawers away from direct sunlight.

Certain spices, like salt-fermented peppercorns or fleur de sel, can benefit from refrigerator storage to maintain freshness.

How do you choose the right containers for your spices?

To preserve your spices properly, choose airtight containers made of opaque glass or ceramic, to effectively protect the aromas and flavours from external factors such as air, light and humidity.

Plantation spices are offered in packaging designed to protect and prolong the shelf life of your spices. Provided, of course, that they are stored in ideal conditions. The kraft tubes (in 25g or 50g format, for example) are designed to preserve the spices and their aromas as well as possible, while offering a practical and eco-responsible container.

All you have to do is open and pour the plastic sachet inside the tube directly into the jar, then close it again after use. The sachet formats, on the other hand, are to be used as refills, to be poured directly into the kraft tubes or into another hermetically sealed container.

You can choose jars adapted to the size of your spices, avoiding containers that are too large to limit oxidation. They are ideal for preserving spices, as long as they are airtight and kept away from light.

You can also opt to store your spices in metal tins, which provide excellent protection from light and air. However, we do not recommend storing spice blends that contain salt, as this can corrode the metal surfaces.

Avoid storing your spices in thin plastic bags, such as those used in markets, which let in air and moisture. Finally, if you wish to store your spices in jars or containers in which other foods have been kept, we recommend that you clean them thoroughly and wait until they are completely dry before putting your spices in them, to avoid moisture build-up.

Our tips for extending the lifespan of spices

Keep spices fresh and aromatic with these tips:

• Rub spices between your fingers to check freshness—weak aroma indicates diminished quality.
• Label containers with the purchase date to monitor freshness.
• Buy spices in smaller quantities, especially those used infrequently.
• Avoid buying spices exposed openly at markets, as environmental contaminants and sunlight accelerate deterioration.

Outside, spices come into contact with dust, exhaust fumes and other contaminants that can alter their quality and purity. The sun’s rays alter the essential oils in spices, reducing their aromatic power. Exposure to the open air encourages the absorption of moisture, which can lead to the formation of bacteria and the growth of mould. Prolonged exposure to air causes the spices to oxidise, altering their flavour and reducing their effectiveness.
To ensure optimum freshness, choose spices that are packaged hermetically and protected from light.

Extra Tip: Oxygen absorbers

We use oxygen absorbers in our spice powder packaging to maintain freshness during transport and storage. Once opened, discard the absorber and start enjoying the unique flavours of our Cambodian spices.

How do I know if my spices are still fresh?

There are several simple ways to check the freshness of your spices. You can, of course, use the date on the packet as a guide, or carry out tests that appeal to your senses. Finally, with a view to reducing waste, your old spices can be recycled.

Can spices still be used after the date mentioned on the packet?
Spices do not expire in the sense that they become unfit for consumption, but they can lose their intensity over time.

How do you test the freshness of a spice?

• Smell: smell the spice; if its fragrance is faint, it has lost its potency.

• Taste: rub a pinch of spice between your fingers and taste it.

• Colour: a dull spice has often lost some of its aromatic compounds.

What to do with old spices?

Rather than throwing them away, you can give them a second life. There are several possible uses:

• Mix them to create your own homemade seasonings for quick consumption, for marinating meats for the barbecue, for example.
• Use them to scent candles or potpourri.
• Some spices, like cinnamon or cloves, can be used as natural insect repellents.

FAQ

How long do ground Spices last?

Typically, ground spices maintain flavour for 2-3 years if stored correctly.

Where should ou store Spices for maximum freshness?

A dark, dry cupboard away from heat is best. Refrigerate fermented or salted spices like Kampot pepper once opened.

Can Spices develop mould?

Yes, especially when exposed to moisture. Discard spices with lumps or unusual odours.

What containers are best for Spice storage?

Hermetically sealed glass jars or metal tins are optimal for protection from air and light.

What is DDM (date of minimum durability)?

DDM indicates when spices may start losing aroma or flavour but remain safe to consume, unlike expiry dates for perishable products.

Storing spices correctly ensures delicious, aromatic dishes. By following these guidelines—selecting suitable containers, avoiding moisture and heat, and preferring whole spices—you’ll enjoy their intense flavours for much longer!