Simple 1p kitchen hack stops jars of spices clumping together

The Problem of Clumping Spices

For anyone who has reached for a jar of oregano or ground cumin only to find it has hardened into an unusable lump, the frustration is familiar. But culinary experts have revealed a simple solution that uses something already in most kitchens: uncooked dry rice.

Why Spices Clump

The Royal Society of Chemistry explains that shaking open containers above steaming pans allows moisture to seep in and clump dry particles together. The Institute of Food Science and Technology confirms that the naturally humid atmosphere in British kitchens compounds the problem.

The Rice Hack

Food scientists from the University of Reading recommend placing a few grains of uncooked dry rice into shakers to act as a natural moisture absorber. BBC Good Food confirms this method can soak up trapped dampness before it destroys the spices completely.

To use the trick, simply insert five to 10 grains of rice directly into the clumped powder. The grains are far too large to fall through the dispensing holes, so they will not end up in your food. The result, according to the reports, is that the rice restores smooth, free-flowing consistency to the spice almost immediately.

A Nearly Free Fix

A 1kg bag of long grain rice contains approximately 50,000 individual grains and retails for £1.20 at Tesco, meaning a small pinch costs about a penny. Consumer experts at Which? describe the hack as 'virtually free' compared to continually purchasing replacement spice jars.

Additional Benefits

The trick keeps the inside of the jar completely moisture-free, preventing spices from sticking together and inhibiting the growth of harmful mould over time. Keeping spices fresh and ready to use is also said to promote healthier, low-salt home cooking.

Spices Likely to Clump

The method is reportedly useful for a wide range of spices and seasonings, including salt, black and white pepper, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, mustard powder, and various herbs such as oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, parsley, and dill. Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, ginger, cardamom, Italian seasoning, curry powder, chili powder, and garlic salt are also listed as prone to clumping.