Free tool

Is my spice still good?

Add the jars on your shelf and roughly when you bought or opened them. We’ll tell you which are still at their best, which need a quick smell test, and which to replace. Your list is saved on this device only.

Spice or blend Form Bought or opened

Free printables: a spice freshness chart for the inside of your cupboard, and spice jar labels with space for the date you opened each jar. All printables

How we judge freshness

Each spice gets its own window, taken from how long it keeps its aroma: whole seeds such as cumin and coriander stay good for about a year, while ground cumin or coriander fades in three or four months, ground cardamom in weeks, and homemade or shop blends like garam masala in two to three months. Whole peppercorns and nutmeg last for years.

Fresh: still inside its window.
Smell test: past its window but not by much. Rub a pinch between your fingers; if the smell is strong, keep using it, maybe a little more generously.
Replace: well past its window. It is very unlikely to be unsafe if it stayed dry, but it will add little flavour.

Spices that stay dry do not go off in a dangerous way. Throw out anything damp, clumped with mould, or with insects. To make them last, read how to store spices, and buy whole where you can and grind small amounts. Then see what you can cook with what is on your shelf.

Frequently asked questions

Do old spices go bad?

Not in a dangerous way, as long as they have stayed dry and show no mould or insects. They lose aroma, colour and heat, so dishes taste flat.

How long does ground cumin last?

Ground cumin is at its best for about three to four months; whole cumin seeds keep their flavour for about a year in an airtight jar away from light.

How can I tell if a spice is past its best?

Rub a pinch between your fingers and smell it. If the smell is faint or dusty, or the colour has faded, buy a fresh jar. For whole spices, crack one or toast a few in a dry pan.