It’s no secret every homeowner wants their pantry to look tidy. It doesn't stop there. Having food items properly stored in the right container has also been as important as keeping the pantry tidy because these containers influence food items’ shelf life. Many homeowners have shared their preference for using glass jam jars to store wet and dried food items including spices due to the benefits it offers to preserving food content.
If you are a spice lover, and you are wondering the type of spices you can store in glass jars, this article will answer some of your questions and help you make an informed decision on the kind of spices you can store in glass jars with preserving jar lids for your spices.
Why is it Important to Store Spices in Glass Jam Jars?
Glass jars with lids are known to be impermeable and non-porous containers that offer proper storage to benefit spices compared to plastic and stainless still. Below are some of the advantages of using glass jars with lids for storing different kinds of spices:
It Preserves Flavour
Spices are flavourful food items whose aroma needs to be preserved with non-porous containers. Glass with preserving jar lids can store and preserve the aroma of spices for a long period without leaching chemicals into the spices.
Unlike plastic, glass effectively blocks harmful UV rays that can degrade the quality of your spices.
Offers an Airtight seal
The preserving jar lids that come with glass storage jars create an airtight environment that prevents contact with moisture, air or any kind of contaminant which can degrade the quality and shelf-life of the spices, unlike plastic containers.
They are Versatile and Durable
Glass is popular and loved for its versatility and durability. This means they can be used to store different kinds of fresh to dried spices over a longer period compared to plastic jars that may warp or require disposal frequently.
Aesthetic appeal
Glass jam jars not only preserve spices but also complement kitchen decor to enhance its beauty.
Types of Spices You Can Store in Glass Jars with Lids
These are a few of the different kinds of spices you can store in storage jars.
1. Rosemary
The non-porosity of glass jars with lids can help retain the flavour of rosemary when stored and sealed properly. When stored dried, it can last up to 2 to 3 years.
2. Parsley
Persely being an aromatic herb, should be stored in an airtight, impermeable container like glass jam jars to ensure it doesn’t lose its aroma or potency. In a glass container, it can last up to 2 years or more.
3. Bay leaves
Bay leaves being essential cooking spices, can easily spoil when they come in contact with moisture. Glass containers with preserving lids ensure they are protected from moisture content.
4. Salt
One significant attribute of salt is it ability to absorb moisture content when exposed to air. This means salt should be stored in an airtight or watertight container to ensure it is stored properly.
5. Onions
Onion flakes when dried or in powdered form need proper storage to maintain its flavour and prevent moisture or contaminants that can easily spoil it. Onion powder or flakes can last up to 3 years.
6. Cinnamon
Cinnamon which is a sweet, warm spice requires good storage to maintain its flavour. You can properly store cinnamon sticks or powder in an airtight glass jar, which can preserve it for up to 2 years.
7. Cumin
Cummin seeds are known for their warm flavour and are best stored in airtight jars away from sunlight. Using glass jars is suitable because it can be placed in the darkest part of the pantry and it won’t be affected by temperature change.
8. Cloves
The intense flavour of cloves makes it a spice that requires an airtight environment to preserve its flavour especially when it’s in powdered form. If properly stored without moisture contamination, it can last up to 5 years.
9. Nutmeg
Nutmeg can be stored either whole or grounded. A sealed jar ensures they are properly preserved for a longer period like 3 years without losing their flavour.
10. Mint
Dried mint being a perfect spice for desserts, teas and some dishes, requires proper storage as it can be used almost daily. To ensure it is preserved for a longer period like up to 2 years, use a glass jar with an airtight lid to avoid contact with moisture.
11. Allspice
Allspice’s shelf life, whether whole or grounded can be extended to 3 years when properly stored in a glass jar with preserving jar lids.
12. Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning is a blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. Maintain its potency for a long period like up to 3 years, and store it in an airtight, non-porous container like a glass preserving jar.
13. Garlic
Most dried garlic is stored in either powdered or flake form. To store them properly, and prevent moisture from coming in contact with them, use a waterproof jar with lids. Dried garlic can last up to 2 years and above if stored properly.
14. Dill
Dill is best stored in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place in the pantry. This means storing dill involves using a container like glass that is impermeable and is irresistible to temperature change.
15. Chili Powder
The rich, spicy flavour of chilli powder is best maintained in a sealed, airtight glass jar. When properly stored, it can last for up to a year and above.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do spices last?
The shelf life of spices depends on various factors like the type of spice, the state (fresh or dried) and importantly the type of storage, which includes the storage containers used, and the environmental condition. As a rule of thumb, when dried spices are stored properly, they can last from months to 3 years.
Where should you not store spices?
Spices especially dried ones, should not be stored in a humid or warm environment. Some spices that are light sensitive, should not be stored in the brightly lit area because it can compromise their flavour.