How Long Does Cinnamon Last?

How long does cinnamon last? The shelf life of cinnamon depends on a variety of factors, such as the best before date, preparation method and how it was stored. Because of Cinnamon’s sweet flavor and proven health benefits (yes, studies show that cinnamon is good for your heart!) it is one of the most popular spices in the world. Cinnamon is used in many types of dishes besides yummy baked goods like Cinnabons, even main dishes. So, how long does cinnamon last past the best before date? When properly stored, the shelf life of cinnamon past its best before date is approximately …

(Unopened/Opened)	Pantry
	Past Printed Date
Cinnamon Sticks last for	2-3 Years
Ground Cinnamon lasts for	6-12 Months

Of course, the shelf life of cinnamon is shorter if it is not stored properly. However, in terms of how long cinnamon lasts, it does not matter much if it is opened or not as long as it has been properly re-sealed. But remember, cinnamon, like a lot of other spices, usually have a best before date or a sell by date and not a use by date or expiration date. Because of this distinction, you may safely use cinnamon to compliment your favorite foods even after the printed date has lapsed.

How to tell if cinnamon is bad, rotten or spoiled?

Practicing proper hygiene and food safety discipline will help prevent food borne illness. Although not a perfect test, your nose is usually the most reliable instrument to tell if it has gone bad. If cinnamon has gone bad, the pleasant aroma will be gone and with it much of the taste. Using this cinnamon will not harm you, but it will not have much flavor. If you choose to use your cinnamon after the eat by date, you can just use a larger quantity to get more flavor. Always remember to practice food safety.

How to store cinnamon to extend its shelf life?

Knowing how to store cinnamon is the key to extending the expiration date. Cinnamon does degrade over time and degrades faster depending on the surface area – thus whole sticks last much longer than ground. An economic option is to buy whole cinnamon sticks and grating only what you need greatly extends the shelf life. Freezing is not recommended for dry spices.

What are some interesting Facts about cinnamon?

It actually comes from the bark of a tree.

How long is cinnamon good for when prepared in a dish?

How long does cinnamon last? That depends. How long does milk last? In general, cinnamon lasts only as long as the quickest expiring ingredient in the recipe. To find out how long those other ingredients are good for, please visit the Dairy, Drinks, Fruits, Grains, Proteins, Vegetables and Other sections of Eat By Date or search below!

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What are our shelf life resources?

Our shelf life of cinnamon content incorporates research from multiple resources, including the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Food & Drug Administration. In addition, we scoured the web for informative articles and reports related to food safety, food storage and the shelf life of cinnamon.

*An important note about expiration dates …

Although the cinnamon shelf life information on Eat By Date is generally reliable, please remember that individual cases will vary and that our advice should only be taken as an opinion and not the replacement of your health care provider. Please eat responsibly!