Why the Herbs and Spices You Choose Really Matter
Herbs and spices have been used in cooking and healing for thousands of years. They’re the backbone of flavor in cuisines around the world, and they’ve played a role in traditional medicine for centuries.
But with the rise of industrialized farming and food production, the quality of herbs and spices on store shelves has dropped dramatically. Today, it’s more important than ever to be mindful about the seasonings you bring into your kitchen.
🚫 The Hidden Dangers in Many Store-Bought Spices
When you pick up a jar of herbs or spices, here’s what you want to avoid:
Irradiation (exposed to radiation):
Many herbs and spices are irradiated to kill bacteria and extend shelf life. The problem? Radiation can dull flavor, reduce nutrients, and strip away the natural qualities that make spices so powerful.
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs):
GMOs are plants or animals altered through genetic engineering. The long-term effects on health and the environment are still unclear, so choosing GMO-free spices is a safer, more sustainable choice.
Preservatives, Additives & Fillers:
These are often added to boost color, extend shelf life, or bulk up a jar. But they can trigger allergies, digestive issues, and leave you with diluted, fake flavor.
MSG (Monosodium Glutamate):
MSG is a common flavor enhancer, but it’s also an excitotoxin linked to inflammation, migraines, obesity, and cell damage.
MSG often hides under names like:
Hydrolyzed protein
Sodium caseinate
Yeast extract
Textured protein
Autolyzed yeast
“Seasoning”
Even if a label says “No MSG Added,” it doesn’t mean it’s truly MSG-free. It only means no extra MSG was added, not that the ingredients themselves don’t contain it.
🌱 Why Choose GMO-Free, Non-Irradiated, and USA-Grown Spices?
Better for your health: No hidden chemicals, no radiation exposure, and more natural nutrients.
Better for the environment: Traditional farming methods protect soil and water.
Better for local communities: Choosing USA-grown supports small farmers and businesses working under strict safety regulations.
Spice Storage Tips (Even in a Small Space or on a Boat!)
The enemies of dried herbs and spices are: Air – Light – Humidity – Heat.
Air: Store in airtight containers.
Light: Keep jars in a cupboard, not on the counter.
Humidity: Add a couple of dried beans to each jar to absorb moisture and keep spices flowing.
Heat: Avoid storing next to the stove or a sunny window.
👉 On Steelaway, I battle all four! But even in a galley, you can fit your essentials into a shoebox-sized space (12” x 7”) — perfect for keeping them cool, dark, and organized.
Why Make Your Own Spice Blends?
Save money compared to pre-mixed jars
Control your salt and spice levels
Skip hidden chemicals and fillers
Enjoy fresher, bolder flavor
I save empty spice jars, refill them with my own blends, and store them just like the rest of my spices. Homemade blends last about 6 months and give you total control over what goes in.
Final Thoughts
The herbs and spices you use have a direct impact on your health, your cooking, and the environment. By choosing non-irradiated, GMO-free, preservative-free, and USA-grown herbs and spices, you’re investing in better flavor and a cleaner lifestyle.
Start small: build your shoebox spice stash, try out homemade blends, and taste the difference that clean, real ingredients make.
✅ My Must-Have Herb & Spice List
With just these essentials, you can whip up your own taco mix, Italian seasoning, chili powder, or curry blend — without worrying about radiation, MSG, or preservatives.
My Spices
Ingredients
- Granulated Onion
- Granulated Garlic
- Basil
- Thyme
- Oregano
- Chili Powder
- Paprika
- Cumin
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
- Cayenne
- Dried Dill
- Dried Chives
- Dried Rosemary
- Ground Allspice
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Ground Cloves
- Ginger
- Mustard Powder
- Celery Salt
- Bay Leaves
- Coriander
- Dried Celery Flakes
- Dried parsley
- Kosher Salt
- Black Peppercorns
- Mixed Peppercorns
- White Peppercorns