Tag: Spice freshness

While cinnamon doesn't spoil in the same way as perishable foods like meat or dairy, it does gradually lose its flavor and potency over time. So, can cinnamon bark go bad? The answer depends on how you define "bad," with loss of aromatic oils being a key factor in its degradation.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), spices are "generally regarded as safe for their intended use," but this broad statement has important caveats. While dried herbs and spices do not typically spoil in a way that makes you sick, is seasoning safe to eat under all circumstances? It is crucial to understand the potential risks, from contamination to improper use, to ensure your culinary creations are as healthy as they are flavorful.

According to food science experts, ground pepper can lose up to 70-80% of its aromatic compounds within an hour of grinding. This rapid loss highlights a critical, often overlooked fact: the benefits of grinding peppers just before use dramatically outweigh the convenience of pre-ground varieties.