Buying masalas seems like one of those jobs you can finish in a couple of minutes. All you have to do is grab your usual pack of spices, put it in the trolley, and move on. But spice cupboards end up becoming a collection of unused stuff. You buy a large pack because it looks like better value, forget about it, open another packet and eventually end up with several half-used spices sitting at the back of the cupboard. A little more thought when shopping can save money and keep your spices in better condition.
1- Do Not Buy More Than You Use
A large packet can look like the sensible choice, especially when the price per gram is lower. But if you only use a particular masala once every few weeks, you may not get through it quickly enough. This is exactly where a grocery delivery app becomes practical. Rather than purchasing an oversized pack because it was the only size available, you can place a smaller order as required. Instamart can come in handy when you suddenly find out that you need to replenish a spice that you use frequently.
2- Turn The Packet Around Before Buying
Do not just look at the name and flavour on the front. Check the ingredients, especially with ready-made spice blends. There is always a chance that there will be certain additives in some products, such as salt, pepper, or other additives, and you are not sure about them. If you have any kind of food allergy or follow a particular diet, then you have to read the ingredients in the product very carefully. This may take only 30 seconds.
3- Avoid Opening Everything At Once
It is tempting to open a new packet as soon as you buy it, particularly when you are reorganising the kitchen. But there is no benefit to having several packets of the same masalas open at the same time. Finish one before opening another where possible. If you do need to transfer spices into containers, make sure they are clean and completely dry first.
4- Store Them Away From Heat
Though it would seem obvious to keep the masalas on the shelf over the stove, heat and steam can damage the masalas. Always try to keep your masalas in a cool and dry spot, with a tightly closed lid after use – the air spoils the flavour and moisture will tend to make them clump together.
5- Check Your Cupboard Before Shopping
Before you order something, take a look at the stock in your pantry. Maybe two unopened packages sit waiting behind other items. If a grocery delivery app saves you a trek to the store and makes shopping easy, it does have disadvantages in that you might buy things impulsively that you don’t want or even need. Try to make out a concise shopping list before using the app and try to stick to it.
6- Buy Smaller, Buy Smarter
You do not need to have an excessive quantity of spices for cooking delicious meals. Stock up only on those which you will be using regularly and purchase smaller amounts of those which you are less likely to use. If any of the spices run out, you can easily order a new pack through Instamart. This will prevent you from accumulating excess packets of spices, which are most likely to be forgotten in the back of your kitchen cabinet.
Dr. Hannah Collins is a nutrition and diet specialist with 13+ years of experience helping people make informed food choices and develop healthier eating habits. She shares evidence-based nutrition guidance focused on balanced diets, meal planning, healthy lifestyles, and sustainable wellness.
