Expiration & Storage Tips
When does lemon thyme expire?
Lemon Thyme doesn’t have a specific expiration date, but its quality starts to decrease after it's harvested or bought. If you've bought pre-packaged Lemon Thyme from the grocery store, try to use it within a week for the best flavor and quality. Once it's been cut or harvested, it typically lasts 10-14 days in the fridge if stored correctly. As a dried herb, Lemon Thyme can retain its flavor for 1-3 years. If frozen properly, it can last up to 6 months
How do you tell if lemon thyme is bad?
Fresh Lemon Thyme is considered bad when it starts to wilt and darken in color. Moreover, if you notice a shriveled, moldy or slimy appearance, it's time to discard it. Dried Lemon Thyme can lose its scent and flavor over time, which can be checked by crushing a few leaves and taking a sniff. If it doesn't smell as strong as when you first got it, the flavor is likely gone. Also, if its color has faded, it might be a sign that the herb has expired.
Tips for storing lemon thyme to extend shelf life
• Keep fresh Lemon Thyme in the refrigerator in a loosely wrapped plastic bag. This keeps the moisture and aroma intact.
• To maintain the freshest flavor, consider storing your Lemon Thyme in a glass of water, just like a bouquet of flowers, and change the water every few days.
• For long-term storage, freeze Lemon Thyme in an airtight container. To avoid it getting freezer burnt, you can chop it and mix it with water or olive oil, and then freeze it in an ice cube tray.
• Dried Lemon Thyme should be kept in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. This maximizes its shelf life and maintains its robust flavor.