468361 Mon Dec 10 23:21:36 -0800 2007 4 27 General Chowhounding Topics 0 3197415 I've decided to replenish my herbs and spices and start anew. I will be heading to The Spice House this week and have attempted to find a chart of sorts that lists the expected shelf life of various items. But I've been unsuccessful thus far. I anticipate that I'll probably purchase around forty items. I have been mindful about portions and gleaned a lot from previous threads. However, nothing of this nature has been created. I'd appreciate any information you have. Mon Dec 10 23:21:36 -0800 2007 138259 gabby29 1 3197497 gabby, I order most of my herbs and spices from The Spice House's Chicago store. (A couple of items, I like more from Dean & DeLuca--e.g., their Herbes de Provence and whole nutmegs--but nearly everything comes from TSH.) TSH's catalog suggests replacing most unused items once a year. Most will last longer, but quality may have deteriorated. The catalog says also that *they* purchase most of the inventory once a year, and there is no point for the customer to replenish it more often if the objective is fresher merchandise. I order about once a month, though, since I figure their storage conditions are more regulated than mine, and because of my own herb-keeping space restrictions (I keep most in the freezer, so I order what I think I'll use that month). Here's a link to THS' website, with FAQs, including re shelf-life. http://www.thespicehouse.com/info/faq I envy you for being close enough to visit them. I love The Spice House's merchandise and its customer service for those of us far away. Tue Dec 11 01:22:57 -0800 2007 3197415 142036 MaggieRSN 2 3200050 Thank you! I have been trying to get my spice list together so I can stop by. I am within walking distance and I never shopped their before. What are your favorites or hidden gems you might suggest? Tue Dec 11 18:11:47 -0800 2007 3197497 138259 gabby29 1 3203317 From the McCormick's site. Doesn't make it clear if they mean open or unopened. http://www.spicecheckchallenge.com/ Wed Dec 12 17:41:21 -0800 2007 3197415 117292 Shayna Madel 1 3203345 If you have a foodsaver or other vacuum device, I strongly suggest storing your spices and herbs in ball jars. Open just before you need them, and reseal immediately afterwards. For frequently used items, like garlic powder, keep a little shaker jar about 1/8 full, and refresh when needed. I've found that with this method, herbs and spices have virtually no limitation on shelf life. Even Vanilla beans last a long time but I add a slice of apple to add moisture ot the jar to keep them soft. Wed Dec 12 17:49:26 -0800 2007 3197415 45690 UnConundrum