The shelf life listed below is approximate and only if stored properly. It is best to follow the "Best By" dates on the products. McCormick® has used “Best By” dates on our spices, herbs, extracts and recipe mixes since 2004. All other McCormick® items started using "Best By" dates on or before 2007.
If your product does not have a "Best By" date it is beyond our recommended shelf life.
General Shelf Life
• Ground Spices - 2 to 4 years
• Whole Spices - 4 years
• Leafy Herbs - 1 to 3 years
• Gourmet Blends - 1 to 2 years
• Gourmet Recipe Mixes - 2 years
• Organic Vanilla – Indefinitely; will never spoil and flavor will enhance over time
• Kitchen Basics Stocks – 2 years
Proper Storage Tips
• Store herbs and spices in a tightly capped container.
• Keep spices and herbs away from heat, moisture and direct sunlight. Avoid storing over the stove, dishwasher, sink or near a window.
• Store members of the red pepper family, including paprika and chili powder, in the refrigerator to retain their color and freshness.
• McCormick does not recommend freezing as freezing does not extend the shelf life of dried herbs and spices. Repeatedly removing the bottles from the freezer may cause condensation to form and accelerate the loss of flavor and aroma.