FAQs

Are your packing peanuts compostable?

Yes, our goal is to use compostable or recyclable materials for our packaging.

Can I shop at your Denver location?

We only sell online. Our location in Denver houses our kitchen and warehouse, but no retail space.

Do you test for heavy metals?

Yes, our spices and herbs are tested for heavy metals and allergens. With California’s Prop 65 having raised concerns over heavy metals in spices, we hope to alleviate fears as we provide the information that’s important to consumers. We are in the process of updating our spice web pages with testing results. All foods naturally contain trace amounts of heavy metals (as heavy metals naturally occur in the earth’s soil). At Smith & Truslow, it has always been our goal to source and provide the healthiest organic products possible.

Certificates of analysis (COAs) identify the country of origin, certifications, and include information on product testing. If you would like to review the COA for the lot we are currently selling, or for one that you have already purchased, please send an email to: customerservice@smithandtruslow.com. Be sure to indicate 1) the spice name, and 2) the lot number, and we’ll respond with a PDF of the COA, as available.

Your labels used to have a “packaged on” date, but in my current order, there is a “best by” date. Why?

We have never considered ourselves “conventional”. However, in response to widespread concerns over food safety, many in the spice industry are taking additional measures to provide you with the information you seek. We support this, and for consistency of communication, we are making a change.

While testing has always been conducted, certificates of analysis (COAs) now accompany our products through the supply chain, identifying country of origin, certifications, testing results, and best by dates.

In order to avoid any confusion that differing dates would cause, beginning in August 2022, Smith & Truslow spice jar labels have “best by” dates (as opposed to “packaged on” dates), and include lot numbers that correspond to the COA for the enclosed spice or herb. If you would like to review the COA for the lot we are currently selling, or for one that you have already purchased, please send an email to: customerservice@smithandtruslow.com. Be sure to indicate 1) the spice name, and 2) the lot number, and we’ll respond with a PDF of the COA, as is available.

Where do your spices come from?

Whenever possible, we source our organic spices and herbs from the US. However, as an agricultural commodity, not all spices are grown here. We source from many countries, dependent upon growing climates, and upon organic availability.

You’ll find that the various countries of origin listed on the individual spice pages. At times, more than one country is listed due to fluctuating inventory.

What size are your jars?

Our spice jars are glass – small jars measure 1-7/8″ in diameter x 2-1/4” tall. Our medium jars measure 2-3/8″ in diameter x 2-3/4″ tall.

Do you have shaker tops for your jars?

For some time, we have been searching high and low for shaker tops. The very sad news is that we have not yet found a shaker top that will work with a jar that meets our “stay-fresh” standards! Yes, our primary goal is to fiercely protect the flavor of our spices and herbs, by limiting exposure to air and light. Our small amber glass jars do a much better job than clear glass, or plastic.

So, our search continues. And, when we find a solution that works with small, dark glass, we’ll let everyone know.

Are your spices gluten-free?

Spices are naturally gluten-free, however cross-contamination can occur during production or transit. At Smith & Truslow, our spices are certified gluten-free… a step beyond their natural state of being gluten-free.

Could you explain about the refill bags?

Refill bags contain the same amount of spice as in our small glass jars. Refills arrive in air-tight plastic bags. Simply snip the corner of your bag, refill your Smith & Truslow spice jar, apply the new label, and recycle the bag.

Is your packaging organic?

Smith & Truslow only carries certified organic products. While our packaging is not “organic”, our goal is always to be environmentally responsible. Every piece of our packaging is recyclable. Our boxes and printed pieces are on stock that is recycled, and in many instances contains 30% post-consumer waste. When possible, we choose to work with printers certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, and we print only with water-based inks.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept payment by credit card, either Mastercard or VISA.

What if my order arrives damaged?

Shipping glass jars can be tricky. If your order arrives broken, let us know. We’ll make it right.

If ordering refill bags only, enter the code: REFILLS at checkout to save $2.00
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