Expiration & Storage Tips
When does celery salt expire?
Celery salt typically lasts a few years if stored correctly. It doesn't necessarily 'expire' in the traditional sense, it instead loses flavor. A good rule of thumb is to replace it every 1-3 years. With a package, it's good practice to adhere to the 'best by' date for full flavor potency, but if unopened, it can last beyond this date. Once opened, keep for 6 months to 1 year for best quality. Freezing celery salt isn't a common practice and wouldn't really extend its shelf-life.
How do you tell if celery salt is bad?
While celery salt doesn't often spoil in the traditional sense, there are ways to tell if it's past its prime. The biggest giveaway is the loss of its characteristic hearty, earthy aroma. If you can't smell anything when you open the container, it's probably time to replace it. Also, if it appears caked or lumpy, this might be a sign of moisture exposure, which can degrade the quality of the flavor.
Tips for storing celery salt to extend shelf life
• Store celery salt in a cool, dark place away from heat and light such as a pantry or cabinet. This helps preserve its flavor for as long as possible.
• Ensure the lid is tightly sealed after each use. Moisture and air can degrade the quality of the salt.
• Consider storing celery salt in an airtight glass container. This can help maintain its potency longer than plastic containers.
• Avoid using a wet spoon to scoop out the salt. Even a small amount of moisture can cause clumping.