Spices beyond the date: A fresh take on use and disposal
Holiday cleaning also includes tidying up kitchen cabinets. During this process, we check what we have in stock, note what needs to be purchased, and often discover which products have expired. But what should you do when it comes to spices? Here's some advice.
Spices typically have very long shelf lives. The expiration date is always printed on the packaging. However, even if this date has passed, it doesn't necessarily mean they need to be discarded. Spices are dry products that do not spoil easily, as bacteria do not grow on them and they do not become mouldy. Much, however, depends on how they are stored, with moisture being their main adversary.
Not always destined for the bin
Let's not kid ourselves—a long time in storage past their expiration date can lead to spices losing their taste, aroma, and colour. They become less aromatic, making it more difficult to flavour dishes with them. Nonetheless, this doesn't mean they must be wasted. To determine their condition, simply smell them and inspect them closely. Spices should be dry, free from clumps, and without threads indicating food moth larvae. If their flavour is mild yet still present, they can still be used, but it's best not to delay. If you have slightly expired spices, use them daily in winter teas or infusions. They can also add fragrance to baths.
When it's necessary to dispose of them
If you decide to dispose of spices, keep a few guidelines in mind.
- Compost: Herb spices such as oregano, basil, thyme, or parsley are suitable for composting. They decompose naturally and enrich the compost with nutrients.
- Biowaste: Dispose of spices in the biowaste bin.
- Mixed waste: As a last resort, spices can be placed in mixed waste bins.
And what about the packaging?
- Paper bags: Packaging made entirely of paper should go in the paper bin.
- Paper bags lined with foil: These types of packaging should be placed in the mixed waste bin.
- Plastic bags: Packaging made of plastic should be disposed of in metal and plastic containers.
- Jars: Glass containers can be placed in the glass bin, but without lids. Metal or plastic lids should go into the yellow bin for metals and plastics. For mixed waste, jars containing expired spices should be placed in the black container.
