Why Freshly Ground Spices Smell Alive (And Old Ones Don’t)

Why Freshly Ground Spices Smell Alive (And Old Ones Don’t)

Aroma Is the First Thing to Leave

Spices don’t go bad immediately.
They go quiet first.

The aroma fades long before expiry dates arrive.


Why This Happens

Spices contain volatile oils.

Over time:

Exposure to air

Heat

Light


causes these oils to evaporate.

The spice still colours food — but it no longer speaks.


Signs of Living Spices

Good spices:

Release aroma instantly

Smell deep, not dusty

Require smaller quantities


Dead spices need more — and still disappoint.


How We Choose Spices at Kolla

We prioritise:

Smaller batches

Strong aroma testing

Proper storage


Because spice quality shapes everything that follows.


If your food smells flat, check your spices first. They might be tired.

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