A simple guide to buying and storing spices like a professional chef

This story comes from the Institute of Culinary Education, which has campuses in New York City and Los Angeles, as well as online programs. Most spices have a big bang of antioxidants, which promote many long-term health benefits like improving gut health, lowering blood sugar, improving brain and memory functionality, and more. Whole > Ground When possible, purchase whole spices — like black peppercorns or cumin seeds — and grind them as needed. I love a good bulk deal as much as the next person but spices will go stale, especially if they're of good quality. If there isn't one labeled, a good rule of thumb is two years for whole spices and one year for ground spices from the date of purchase.