Sorta OT - Expiration Dates
 

A handy, who-knew guide for 77 foods, beauty products and household goods.

Foods:
http://channels.isp.netscape.com/hom...od&floc=HR-1_T

Household products:
http://channels.isp.netscape.com/hom...ationhousehold

Beauty products:
http://channels.isp.netscape.com/hom...pirationbeauty

Now...what I want to know...Is how long spices are good for?

After our dd was born, I found a jar of cinnamon or something similar (nutmeg maybe?) in my ILs pantry dated the year dh was born (Ew!) Which I, of course, tossed. FIL was very miffed at me; I don't easily get on his good side, LOL. I've read since that they are of course most flavorful as soon as they are opening and lose their flavor after a year...but...well, at what point do you not want to ingest them?

Spices that are dried can sit for ages and ages and still be edible. They might lend a rather stale flavour to your food though. ;)

Nutmeg is another story. It has oils and moisture in it (if it's a real nutmeg). And nutmeg is a toxin to begin with. So, if it's old (of unknown age), I'd toss it and get a new one.

Better yet, buy a whole nutmeg and a microplane grater and use it fresh. It is incredible!

MistofViolets,

Here are a couple of guides re: spice retention.

http://www.ochef.com/627.htm

http://lancaster.unl.edu/food/ftj-f02.htm

Hope this helps.

Marilyn