Spices

Can Cinnamon Go Bad? – How Long Can Cinnamon Sticks Last? – How To Store Cinnamon Sticks?

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Can Cinnamon Go Bad?: Cinnamon is a spice that comes from the bark of the cinnamon tree. Most people add this to get aroma and flavor for their dishes. So there is a chance of cinnamon stock in your storage, if yes, you are wondering can cinnamon go bad or expire? how long does it last?

Cinnamon is good for health and has different advantages. Here we are offering the data like how to store cinnamon long-term, how long can cinnamon sticks last in the water, what to do with expired cinnamon powder, and so on. In stores, cinnamon is made available in two forms i.e cinnamon sticks, ground cinnamon or cinnamon powder.  Have a look at the all parameters of both powder and sticks.

can cinnamon go bad

Can Cinnamon Go Bad?

Cinnamon can’t go bad like other spices, but it loses aroma and flavor over time. The proper storage conditions might help to keep the ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks quality for more periods.
When you feel your cinnamon powder is spoiled, then don’t add it to your recipes or drinks. If you notice any signs of spoilage of cinnamon, then discard it immediately.

How To Tell If Cinnamon Is Bad?

Cinnamon spices last for a long time but they don’t stay good indefinitely. It is not good to cook with cinnamon that has a bad taste. There are a few tips to tell if cinnamon sticks are spoiled. They are smell, taste, touch, pantry bugs and mold.

How To Tell If Cinnamon Sticks Are Spoiled?

If the smell and flavor of the sticks are fine, then you have to follow the below guidelines.

Take one cinnamon stick from the pack and grate it. Rub the powder and check the smell and taste. If the cinnamon flavor still exists, then it is okay to consume. If it tastes fading, then add more cinnamon to your dishes to get the flavor. But if you feel nothing, then throw the sticks outside.

Ground Cinnamon Spoilage Signs

Here are the cases where cinnamon is actually spoiled and the time to discard it.

  • When you Notice dead or alive, eggs of pantry bugs or insects inside the powder bag.
  • The powder forms wet clumps when it meets the moisture or water. Over time, the clumps even become mold.
  • Adding any not-dried spices or food products contaminates the spice.
  • If cinnamon powder’s taste and flavor are bad. the way of checking the aroma is the same for sticks and ground cinnamon.

How To Store Cinnamon?

Cinnamon should always stored properly to retain its flavor, and smell for more period. Store an unopened pack in a cool and dry place. A kitchen cupboard is the best option. Once the spice pack is opened, transfer them into a resealable container or jar and store it away from fresh air.

Storing Cinnamon Sticks

Store cinnamon sticks in an airtight bag in a cool and dry environment. The bag should be placed in a spice drawer. It should be protected from bugs, heat, moisture, and any other strong odors.

Ground Cinnamon Storage Tips

The unopened ground cinnamon lasts for 2 years. Make sure that the pack is sealed properly so that you can avoid mold contamination or bug infestations. Always store the powder in an airtight container in a space that is not too hot or too cold.

Don’t place the cinnamon powder in the fridge or freezer. The extreme heat of cold will make it lose its potency.

Also, Check

How Long Does Cinnamon Last?

Cinnamon is available in two forms ie ground cinnamon or cinnamon sticks. Both last for a longer period if stored correctly. You are advised to store cinnamon in an airtight container so that it will not lose flavor.

Shelf Life of Cinnamon Sticks

The opened cinnamon sticks’ shelf life is 2 years and unopened sticks last for 4 years. The better storage periods are useful for the sticks to retain the flavor better than the ground variety.

Because of its longer shelf life, sticks are the best choice if you use cinnamon sparingly. It might last 1 year past the best-by date.

How Long Does Ground Cinnamon Last?

The unopened ground cinnamon lasts for 2 years and opened lasts for 1 year in the pantry. But it will maintain the best quality for 6 months after the expiration date. The cinnamon pack comes with a best-by date on the label which is not the expiration date. It is an estimation of how long the taste is good.

Pantry
Unopened ground cinnamon 2 years
Opened ground cinnamon 1 year
Unopened cinnamon sticks 4 years
Opened cinnamon sticks 2 years

how long can cinnamon sticks last

Can You Freeze Cinnamon?

It is not recommended to freeze cinnamon. But you can choose to freeze the spice when you buy in huge quantities. As cinnamon is sensitive to heat and cold environments, it is not the best choice.

Freezing cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon leads to loss of flavor and taste and mold growth. So, when you have large quantities of cinnamon, store them in an airtight container.

Can Cinnamon Go Bad

Interesting Facts About Cinnamon

The fun facts about cinnamon are listed here:

  • Cinnamon comes from the bark of the cinnamon tree.
  • The cinnamon tree can grow up to 60 feet.
  • The 2 most popular types of cinnamon are: Ceylon and Cassia.
  • Cinnamon sticks are also called quills.
  • Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant that aids in controlling blood sugar.
  • It compliments both sweet and salty dishes (and drinks).
  • Cinnamon is high in fiber and calcium which helps improve colon health.
  • It also contains other minerals such as iron and magnesium.
  • Cinnamon is often used in traditional medicine.
  • Cinnamon also has many alternative benefits such as for beauty products and the house.

FAQs on Do Cinnamon Go Bad

1. Does cinnamon have health benefits?

Yes, cinnamon has several health benefits such as it lowers blood sugar levels, and reduces heart disease.

2. Can cinnamon sticks get moldy?

Yes, cinnamon sticks get moldy when it touches moisture or water or fresh air.

3. What to do with expired cinnamon powder?

The ways to use expired cinnamon spices are grilling, fresh your carpet, making beautiful easter eggs, growing strong healthy plants and so on.

4. Can expired cinnamon make you sick?

No, expired cinnamon will not harm you.

In a Nutshell

Hope the information we have shared regarding can cinnamon go bad, is useful and beneficial for you. As cinnamon has several health benefits and is a costly spice, no one wants to waste it. The best storage increases the cinnamon shelf life. If you have any other doubts, you can comment to us in the comment section. Bookmark our site for more interesting updates on the food products.

Does Salt Expire or Go Bad? – Shelf Life, Storage Tips and Signs that Salt Has Gone Bad?

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Does Salt Expire?: Salt is one of those items which always available in the kitchen. Did you find a packet of salt while cleaning your kitchen that was past the date? Then when you see that salt you may get a question immediately does salt expire? or can it go bad? Maybe till now, you were in thought that salt has no expiry and it will never go bad. If so, this article is for you.

In this article, we have provided you the complete information about the salt, how long it last, how to store it, and many more. As this is the ingredient that was used in our daily life, knowing about salt is very important. So, without any delay, let’s get started!!

Does Salt Expire

Does Salt Expire? Can It Go Bad?

No, salt will not expire. As it will not go bad on its own, if we do not store it properly we may face that situation. So, proper storing of salt is always necessary. When you purchase a pack of salt in the store, it will come by the “best before date” label.  As salt has sodium chloride in it, it will last long without going bad.

How Long Does Salt Last?

Salt is an essential mineral that we need for our body in order to function properly. The shelf life of the salt will last long, that was found on both land and sea. We will have the “best before date” label on the packet or on many food ingredients because it is required by the law. Here below we are going to provide the shelf life of the salt.

 Types Pantry
Salt (table, kosher, sea, Himalayan) Indefinite
Iodized salt Best-by date for peak quality (~5 years)

How Long Does Salt Last

How To Tell If Salt Has Gone Bad?

Practicing proper hygiene and food safety techniques will help prevent foodborne illness. As we have mentioned above salt will last forever, you may think that is why salt will go bad. But without using proper storage tips the salt will go bad easily. So we will see the signs below to know whether the salt has gone bad or not.

Bugs in the Pack

If you always keep the salt pack open in the pantry, you may find some pantry bugs in the salt packet. So, when you find bugs, it is better to throw the packet.

Large and Hard Clumps

This is another sign to throw the salt in the trash. If you find large and hard clumps in the salt then get rid of them, this will mainly occur if you use any wet hands or a wet spoon.

Appearance Changes

It will happen very often if your salt looks different or changes its color then better to discard it. The look should be the same as when you bought the salt.

Smells Odd

When you smell the salt if it smells like something else. Then throw it out and open a new packet of salt.

How To Store Salt

There are many best ways that are available to store salt for a long time.

  • The best way to store the salt for long use is storing it in an air-tight container.
  • Store it in a cool, dry place.
  • For short-term storage, a salt shaker is absolutely fine.
  • Always keep the lid tightly as the salt will absorb the smells very easily.
  • And before keeping your lid tightly make sure the cap is dry.
  • Use dry spoons to take the salt out.

Related Articles: 

Does Salt Expire

Interesting Facts About Salt

Know some interesting facts about salt that many of us do not know.

  • Salt will help as medicine for sour throat or mouth sores, by mixing it with water you need to gargle.
  • Use rock salt mixed with ice and cold water in a bucket for the quick chill of a champagne bottle.
  • Our body needs about 100 grams of salt, for every 40 kilos of weight.
  • Sea turtles cry, to get rid of excess salt in their body.

FAQs on Does Salt Expire

1. Can we use expired salt?

Yes, of course, salt has no expiry but we will find a best before date on the packet because as per the food laws they will give an expiry date.

2. How long does sea salt last at room temperature?

If the salt is properly stored, you can use it for indefinite shelf life.

3. Can salt lose its taste?

No, salt will not lose its flavor.

Key Upshots

Hope we have answered all your queries that you have on does salt expire?.  As salt has an indefinite shelf life we need to store it properly. Share all these storage tips with your friends and family so that they will also store for long. Still, if you have any doubts you can comment to us in the comment section. If you are interested to know about other spices, you can comment to us below. Stay tuned to our canfoodgobad.com website for more updates.

How Long Does Nutmeg Last After Expiration Date? – Does Nutmeg Go Bad? – Tips to Store Nutmeg

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How Long Does Nutmeg Last?: Nutmeg is a spice that is made from the nutmeg tree seed. It is the inner seed which is generally seen in the kitchen. It is a special spice having a particular sweet taste, aroma, and flavour that is used in meat, sauces, and other delicious recipes. If you have a nut meg pack, and not sure what is its shelf life or how long does nutmeg last?

You can also wonder can nutmeg goes bad and signs to tell if nutmeg has gone bad and how long it will last read on to find out.

how long does nutmeg last

How Long Does Nutmeg Last?

Nutmeg is a costly product. So if you are throwing it in the trash once it is spoiled, then you should not buy in huge quantities. Like all other spices, nutmeg also has a less shelf life than the whole.

The whole nutmeg retains its quality for 3 to 4 years, while ground nutmeg lasts for 2 years. To know its shelf life, you need to check the best by date present on the label of the package. You can consume the nutmeg after the expiration date for at least 1 year if you store it properly.

Actually, the raw nutmeg is completely dried before packaging to increase its lifespan. When stored properly in a sealed jar, the nutmeg will last about 4 to 5 years. This flavorful spice is need to be stored safely for an extended life span without any harm, but we have to compromise on its quality over time.

Nutmeg loses its aroma, flavor, and taste when it is in contact with direct sunlight or water or air.

Pantry
Ground 2-3 years
Whole 4-5 years

Nutmeg Shelf Life

How To Tell If Nutmeg Is Bad?

When the nutmeg is stored with proper precautions, then it will last for 4 to 5 years. But if you have not stored it properly, then there are high chances of getting rancid. Here are some signs that tell that your nutmeg has gone bad and is no longer safe to consume.

Smell:

Before you use the nutmeg in your recipes, just check the smell of it. If you observe any unpleasant smell, then it should be thrown out.

Mold Formation:

When ground or whole nutmeg has direct contact with water, there is an immediate start of fungal growth which appears as a spongy and clustered surface. Which is called mold formation. The water exposure spoils the nutmeg quickly. When you see mold, then it is no longer useful.

Check for Potency:

The flavour and aroma of the nutmeg gradually degrade over time. So, when you are using nutmeg that has been stored for a long time, it is advised to check its smell and taste. If you notice any bad odour or taste, then don’t add it to your recipes.

Does Nutmeg Go Bad?

Yes, nutmeg goes bag. Either whole or ground nutmeg spoils at some time. The date on the label represents how long does it last. Mostly nutmeg retains its quality for 3 to 4 years and 1 year after the best by date. But over time, you notice a gradual drop in the quality.

If you are using old nutmeg, then rub a small amount in your hand and test its taste and flavor. If the aroma and taste are good, then it is ready to eat.

How To Store Nutmeg?

The tips to store nutmeg safely and properly are mentioned here. By following these safety precautions, you can easily store both ground and whole nutmeg for a longer time without compromising on its quality.

Store In An Air-Tight Container:

It is better to store both whole and ground nutmeg in an air-tight container. Or use the zip-loc bags or sealable bags to extend their shelf life.

Place The Spice Away From Sunlight, Heat, And Moisture:

When nutmeg is exposed to heat, moisture, or sunlight, then mold formation can occur. However, the heat, sunlight or water exposure will degrade the potency and taste of spices. So make sure to store the spice in a cool and dark area in your pantry.

Store The Whole Nutmeg:

If you aim to store the spice for a longer time, then purchase the nutmeg in the form of whole rather than the grounded powder. Ground nutmeg has a higher surface area exposed, which leads to the loss of its potency. So avoid buying powdered nutmeg and opt for whole nutmegs instead.

Don’t Refrigerate or Freeze Nutmeg:

If you think that storing nutmeg in the fridge increases its shelf life, then it is not true. Because when the moisture contact with nutmeg, it might degrade its quality. Storing nutmeg at room temperatures, it will increase the life span.

Don’t Use A Wet Spoon For Measurements:

It is very important to tip. Never use a wet spoon for the measurement of nutmeg if you want to use it for a longer time.

Also, Know

How Long Does Nutmeg Last

Interesting Facts About Nutmeg

The cool facts about nutmeg are here:

  • Nutmeg is a common name for a dark-leaved evergreen tree.
  • It is the oval-shaped seed, and mace is the bright red webbing that surrounds the seed.
  • Nutmeg is known to impact health in many ways because of its nutritive content of vitamins, and organic compounds.
  • It has a distinctive pungent fragrance and a warm slightly sweet taste.
  • Nutmeg is highly neurotoxic to dogs.
  • Nutmeg originated in the Banda Islands of Indonesia and was discovered by the Portuguese in 1512.
  • The health benefits of nutmeg are relieving pain, digestion, skincare, blood pressure, treating insomnia, and circulation.

FAQs on Does Nutmeg Expire

1. How to use nutmeg?

You can use nutmeg in various dishes. Add it to coffee, tea, hot chocolate, warm milk, cauliflower, sweet potato, and so on.

2. What does nutmeg smell like?

The good nutmeg smell is sweet spicy clove phenolic woody.

3. Can you freeze the whole nutmeg?

No, you should not freeze nutmeg. The moisture makes the nutmeg develop mold and the freezer will not extend the nutmeg shelf life.

4. Does nutmeg make you sleepy?

The medicinal properties of nutmeg help in calming nerves and releasing serotonin and leading to sleep.

Key Upshots

Hope the information provided on our page with regards to How Long Does Nutmeg has been beneficial to you. Store nutmeg in an air-tight container to preserve it for a long time. Also, see Can Nutmeg Go Bad before the expiration date. For more queries bookmark our site and stay tuned to get more food updates.

How Long Does Pepper Last – Pepper and Peppercorn Storage & Shelf Life

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How Long Does Pepper Last?: Pepper is one of the popular spices that we use in our day-to-day lives. Its distinct and rich aroma makes it different from regular spices. Have you bought some peppercorns and stored them in your spice rack and don’t know how long it’s been kept there? Don’t bother as we tried to satisfy your quest with questions like How Long Does Pepper Last, Can Pepper Go Bad & Expire, Tips & Tricks to Store Pepper, etc.

Read on to know further about the Shelf Life of Black Pepper, Peppercorns, and the Signs of Spoilage of Pepper in detail and when to discard them off. If you want answers to either of these questions then this article is for you. Wait no further and start learning about this Spice in detail.

How Long Does Pepper Last

Does Black Pepper Go Bad or Expire?

No, Black Pepper doesn’t expire or go bad. However, the taste of the spice will not be the same and it loses its potency over time. Usually, the manufacturer mentions the best date on the packaging label to tell us how long the product will stay of good quality. You can use the Black Pepper even after that tenure but the taste will fade away.

By following better storage practices the chances of Black Pepper are quite less. As it is ground and dried there is no chance of microbial growth. Despite all this, if you find any mold growth or any off smell throw it away.

How to Store Black Pepper Long Time?

In Order to Store your Black Pepper for a long time, it is advised to keep the Pepper in a dry and cool place away from the sunlight. Make sure the jar or container in which you are storing the Black Pepper needs to be tightly sealed. In case you bought Black Pepper in non-resealable bags better transfer them to a container after opening the bag. You can even close the top of it and seal the bag. Unless and until some moisture content gets into the Black Pepper Container your Pepper stays perfectly fine.

How to Store Peppercorns?

Storage of peppercorns is much similar to storing Black Pepper. Keep the Peppercorns in a dry and cool place away from the sunlight, and direct sources of heat. Kitchen Cabinets or a Pantry can be a great choice to do so. You can even store some peppercorns in the pepper mill. If your Peppercorns don’t come in resealable bags better transfer them to containers. You can even fold and close the top of the bag so that it doesn’t get exposed to air.

How Long Does Black Pepper Last?

Black Pepper will stay in good quality for about 2-4 years after the Production Date. The Longer it stays in storage the milder the taste will be. If your taste doesn’t vary much you need not discard it. If there is no aroma and the taste is mild you better open a new package. Have a glance at the below table to understand the Shelf Life of Black Pepper.

Condition Pantry
Whole peppercorns (black, white, pink, green) 3 – 4 years or Best-by date
Ground pepper 1 – 2 years or Best-by date

How Long Does Black Pepper Last

How Long Do Peppercorns Last?

Peppercorns will stay of the best quality for about 3-4 years. When compared to ground pepper Peppercorns will lose their flavor much slower than grounded pepper. You can’t go by the best by date and throwing your Peppercorns on basis of it is a pretty bad idea. In case of any doubts crush or grind the peppercorns and check for their smell and flavor. If the Aroma and Taste are strong Peppercorns are perfect to use.

Condition Pantry
Peppercorns Best-by + 6 – 12 months for best quality

How to Tell if Pepper is Bad?

Below are signs that tell us if Pepper has gone bad or not. They are along the lines

  • If Pepper is Moldy, Wet, or gets any off smell it’s a sign that your Pepper is useless.
  • In case of any visual change discard the Pepper right away.
  • For an ancient pack of pepper, the taste will not remain the same and you better buy a new package.
  • To check if your Black Pepper is good or not give it a quick taste and if you find any difference it indicates something went wrong.

See More:

How Long Does Pepper Last

Facts about Black Pepper

Here is a quick glance at some of the interesting facts to know about Black Pepper. They are as under

  • Black Pepper is Perennial Flowering Vine and comes from the dry fruit Peppercorn.
  • After the plants reach maturity Peppercorns are harvested from the stem and then boiled and dried in the sun for several days.
  • Pepper is rich in both Vitamin A & Vitamin C.
  • Pepper loses its aroma and flavor via evaporation and is thus better to store in an airtight container.
  • It is cultivated in typical tropical regions and is native to South India.

FAQs on Shelf Life of Pepper

1. How can you tell if Black Pepper is Bad?

You can tell if Black Pepper is bad or not by sensing its flavor as it has a very distinct and sharp flavor. If you don’t get any smell then it is time to toss your Black Pepper.

2. Can Expired Pepper make you Sick?

No, Pepper will not make you sick but you will not have good taste.

3. Can Black Pepper Get Moldy?

Yes, Black Pepper can develop the potential to grow mold if it gets in contact with water by any chance.

Final Takeaways

We wish the information presented here with regards to How Long Does Pepper Last is true to our knowledge. Follow the simple hacks listed to ensure the longevity of Pepper and to retain the flavors. If you have any questions left unanswered feel free to write us via the comment section and we are open to help. Keep connected with us to have the latest updates on storage practices, shelf life, and expiration dates of various food-related products.