Eternal products: do salt and sugar really have an expiration date? Doctor answers

Ph.D., expert in evidence-based practices and health management

“Sugar and salt are the most famous and common spices in the world. Since ancient times, they have earned the status of integral elements of cuisine. Their roles in the diverse culinary cultures of our planet are vast, but what about their longevity and storage rules?”

The History of Spices

Looking at salt and sugar through the lens of history reveals not only culinary, but also social, economic and cultural aspects that have shaped civilizations through the ages.

Salt, which held a special place in ancient cultures, was not only a universal condiment but also a key element in rituals and trade. In the Roman Empire, the spice was given such high importance that it was even used as a means of payment for labor, which is where the word “salaria” (salary) comes from.

Sugar, on the other hand, was considered a truly exotic treat in ancient times. It was so rare that in medieval Europe the product often served not only as a sweet treat, but also as a status symbol. The situation changed radically with the expansion of colonial empires and the discovery of the New World, where its mass production on plantations began.

Salt and sugar testify to the richness and diversity of human history, being multifacetedly linked to many aspects of our society and culture. From the traditional methods of salt extraction in the Himalayas to the trade routes of sugar in the Caribbean, these two products continue to tell fascinating stories of how we humans have been connected through food, trade and tradition for centuries.

Storage rules: the secrets to longevity

Let’s talk more about storing these two foundational foods to ensure they last a long time and retain their beneficial properties.

Salt

Contrary to popular belief, salt, despite its natural resistance to bacteria due to its antiseptic properties, also requires a special approach to storage. First of all, it is important to pay attention to the humidity of the environment. Although it can be stored indefinitely, humidity can lead to the formation of lumps and loss of bulkiness of the product.

That is why it is recommended to store salt in airtight containers that isolate it from the environment. It is also advisable to choose a cool and dark place for storage to minimize the effects of heat and light, which can also affect the structure of the mineral.

Sugar

Humidity is sugar’s nemesis. It leads to liquefaction and loss of quality of the product. Airtightness in sugar storage becomes a must when storing sugar. Use tightly sealed containers to avoid contact with moisture and keep the product in optimal condition.

Also, store sugar away from foods with strong flavors, as it can absorb odors, which will certainly affect the taste of your next baked goods. The location of the product also matters: a cool, dry place protected from direct sunlight will be ideal.

All in all, these approaches will ensure that the quality of the two main pillars of your culinary magic will be preserved for a long time, leaving their flavor and aroma unchanged over time.

At home, it is technically difficult to follow all the rules of storage, so it is recommended not to make large stocks, and buy salt and sugar in small quantities, so that they always remain dry and are as suitable for use as possible.

Rational and healthy consumption

According to the WHO, the recommended sugar intake is no more than 25 g per day (5 tsp). It is important to remember that this amount includes not only “apparent” sugar, but also “hidden” sugar contained in foods such as drinks and snacks.

As for salt, the recommendation is no more than 5 g per day (1 tsp) to prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Following the path of healthy eating and reducing sugar intake, many are looking for alternatives that are less harmful to health. One such option is stevia, a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant.

Stevia has no calories and is 200-300 times sweeter than sugar, allowing it to be used in much smaller amounts. It is also important to remember that it has a specific flavor that may take some getting used to.

As for brown sugar, there is a widespread misconception about its greater benefits compared to white sugar. In fact, the product, whether “raw” or not, is still essentially sugar and contains virtually the same amount of calories and carbohydrates as its white counterpart.

The difference is the minimal molasses content, which gives it its brown color and specific taste, but does not make it a healthier option.

There are many strategies for reducing sugar intake, such as gradually reducing the amount of sugar in your diet, reading food labels for “hidden” additives, and replacing sugary snacks with fresh fruits or berries. These simple changes can be the start of a path to a healthier lifestyle, reducing your risk of developing various diseases and improving your overall health.

To reduce salt intake in your daily diet, it’s worth resorting to a few proven strategies that can help keep your meals tasty without resorting to overuse of this ingredient.

Initially, pay attention to the habit of reading labels when shopping. Many processed foods contain high levels of salt, which often goes unnoticed. Enrich your cooking practice with a variety of spices and herbs. They can add new notes to your dishes without additional salting.

Try experimenting with turmeric, garlic, rosemary or basil to create rich and healthy flavors. Also, when possible, favor fresh or frozen foods over canned or convenience foods.

Remember that salt habits are formative, and over time your palate may adapt to less salty dishes, opening up a new range of gastronomic pleasures without compromising your health.