Questions & Answers - Shelf Life & Storage of Herbs

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Question:

My Mother and I are in a disagreement as to how best to store our herbs and spices at out vacation home in Florida.  Mom insists that they last longer in the refrigerator.  I say they would keep better away from the dampness of the fridge in the cupboard.  She also does the same with fresh garlic for short term keeping.  I say that's a big no no.


Answer: 

Shelf Life & Storage of Herbs
 
Herbs do not "go bad", they lose potency. Heat, light, and moisture damage the dried botanicals. Proper storage for medicinal and culinary herbs requires glass containers, well-sealed, away from moisture, heat and light. Do not store herbs or spices in plastic, vinyl bags, aluminum or tin containers. Avoid keeping herbs near the stove, in the refrigerator or in the bathroom.
 
With proper storage, you can expect the following shelf life:
  • whole, dried - 2 years
  • cut, dried - 1 year
  • powdered - 6 months