The answer lies in your pantry.

I love to cook, and I do it a lot.

Yes, spices actually do expire and they don’t last as long as most people think.

a woman chopping up vegetables in the kitchen while following a recipe on her laptop

Photo: Getty Images

But they do lose their flavor and antioxidant potential over time as light and oxygen can break them down.

Luckily, there are a few ways to make replacing your spices more budget-friendly.

Ideally, I rely on the bulk bins for spices when I can.

You also don’t need to buy specialty organic spice brands to add flavor to your food.

Also, always shop the sales, in person or online.

Also use your spices often and in quantities that taste good to you.

It can also boost theanti-inflammatory and antioxidant propertiesof your food.

For more budget- and beginner-friendly cooking tips and recipes, check outThrifty.