Expiration & Storage Tips
When does herbes de provence expire?
Herbes de Provence, like most dried herbs, can last between one to three years. The key factor is maintaining the freshness of the blend for as long as possible. Unopened, a commercially packaged Herbes de Provence blend typically has a best-before date of one to three years from packaging. Once opened, it's best to use the blend within six months for maximum flavor, though it may be safe to consume well past this period. If frozen, the blend can retain its potency for up to a year.
How do you tell if herbes de provence is bad?
While dry herbs don't typically 'go bad', their flavor and aroma diminish over time. If the Herbes de Provence has lost its fragrance—it no longer smells herbaceous, earthy, or floral—it’s time to replace it. If the color has faded significantly, this is also a sign of decreased quality and flavor.
Tips for storing herbes de provence to extend shelf life
• Store your Herbes de Provence in an airtight container, away from heat, light, and moisture.
• Always scoop some out into a smaller container for frequent use while keeping the bulk of it stored properly in a cool, dry place.
• If you need to store it for longer periods, consider freezing the bottle to preserve peak freshness. Remember to seal it tightly before adding it to the freezer.
• Avoid storing the herb blend above the stove or near a window where it's exposed to heat or light as this can speed up the process of it losing its flavor.
• For ultimate freshness, buy whole leaf Herbes de Provence and grind it yourself just before use.