Can You Use Dried Herbs and Spices After the Best-Before Date?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against FSA date labelling guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes. Dried herbs and spices have a best-before date, which is about quality rather than safety, so them is usually fine to use after the date. Check that they look and smell normal.
Why it's usually fine past the date
A best-before date is the maker's estimate of how long dried herbs and spices stays at its best. After it, they lose their colour and aroma, not their safety; it doesn't suddenly become unsafe. The FSA says food is generally safe to eat after its best-before date, and using your own judgement also cuts food waste. Throw it away if you see: damp, mould, insects or clumping.
You can also check the calorie content of dried herbs and spices alongside their safety information.
As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links.
Waste less, safely
Airtight storage containers
Opened food lasts longest sealed properly, not in a folded-over packet.
Check Price →Bread bin
Cool, dark and ventilated — bread's best-before does more work in one.
Check Price →Links open your local Amazon store. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
More storage essentials
Dried Herbs and Spices: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In the fridge (Dried Herbs) | 1–2 years in the cupboard |
Common questions
How long do dried herbs and spices last?
USDA FoodKeeper gives dried herbs 1–2 years, ground spices 2–3 years and whole spices 3–4 years. After that they are weaker, not dangerous. Crush a little; if it has no smell, it is only good for colour.
How can I tell if dried herbs and spices has gone off?
Look for damp, mould, insects or clumping. If none of those apply and it looks, smells and tastes normal, it is fine.
What actually changes after the best-before date?
They lose their colour and aroma, not their safety. That's a drop in quality, not a safety problem (FSA).
What is the difference between use-by and best-before?
Use-by is about safety: do not eat after it. Best-before is about quality: the food is often fine after it, just past its best. Check which one is on your label.
Related answers
Primary source: FSA date labelling guidance.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.