frequently asked questions
everything you’ve ever wondered about our handcrafted, small-batch seasoning blends — from ingredients and freshness to shipping, storage, and flavour inspiration.
product & ingredient questions
are your blends all-natural or free from additives?
We offer a wide range of blends — many are all-natural, while others include carefully chosen additives that help preserve freshness or revive bright, herbaceous flavours.
Look for our “Clean Label” logo on the back of each jar (just below the ingredient list) when this matters most to you.
Because herbs and “fresh” flavours can mellow during the drying process, a touch of additives helps bring those lively notes back — so every sprinkle tastes vibrant and full of life.
are your products gluten-free, vegan, or allergen-friendly?
Each blend is unique, so there’s no universal answer — but we believe in complete transparency.
You’ll find full ingredient and allergen details on every product page.
If you have sensitivities or specific dietary needs, please review each ingredient list carefully before purchasing.
do your blends contain salt?
Unlike many mass-produced seasonings, we don’t rely on excessive salt. This means the true flavour and quality of our ingredients can shine through. Most of our blends include sea salt — just enough to enhance the spices, not enough to overpower them.
Our goal is balance, not dominance. You will still want to add more salt to suit your personal taste.
If you’re mindful of sodium, you can easily find detailed ingredient lists for each blend on our website.
where do your ingredients come from?
We source our ingredients from trusted Canadian suppliers to ensure the best flavour, freshness, and quality. While many spices and herbs can’t be grown in Canada’s climate, our suppliers are always Canadian-based.
We’re proud to partner with local businesses who share our commitment to sustainability, flavour, and craft.
what does “handmade” or “small-batch” mean at the spice drawer?
At The Spice Drawer, handmade and small-batch mean every blend is crafted with care — never mass-produced.
Here’s why it matters:
Superior Quality: Each batch is closely monitored for consistency and bold flavour.
Freshness First: Frequent production means fresher spices and maximum aroma.
Less Waste: We make only what’s needed — reducing overproduction and packaging waste.
Creative Freedom: Small batches allow for innovation, limited editions, and seasonal blends.
Local Partners: We work with Canadian suppliers to support local economies and lower our footprint.
Naturally Better: Gentle handling preserves the natural oils and vibrant flavour of every spice.
Small batches. Big flavour. Always fresh.
usage & storage
how long do your spices last, and how can I keep them fresh?
Spices don’t “expire,” but they gradually lose potency after 2–3 years. Most taste their best within 10 months of opening.
Our packaging is designed to protect that freshness. We use glass jars to keep out air and moisture, and our large labels help block light.
For maximum freshness, store your spices in a cool, dry spot — like a cabinet or drawer, away from heat and humidity for maximum shelf life.
how much seasoning should I use?
This is where the fun begins — there’s no wrong way! Start small, taste as you go, and adjust to your liking.
Pro tip: For an instant flavour boost, sprinkle a little extra seasoning right before serving. That quick garnish adds a second layer of flavour — one cooked, one fresh.
can I use your blends in marinades, dips, or dressings?
Absolutely! Our blends are made to be versatile.
Try these ideas:
Marinades: Mix 3 parts oil, 1 part acid (like lemon juice or vinegar), and 1 part spice blend. Add a touch of salt or sweetener to balance.
Dips: Stir into yogurt, sour cream, or hummus for an instant flavour boost.
Dressings: Whisk together oil, acid, mustard (for emulsifying), and our blends for a quick, homemade dressing.
Find endless inspiration on our recipes page or substack, where we share weekly tips and creative ways to cook with our seasonings.
what’s the best way to use your “in a pinch” blends?
Our In a Pinch line helps you make specific, crowd-pleasing dishes in minutes — no recipe required. Each blend is thoughtfully crafted so you can create something delicious in a pinch.
Think:
Garlicky, golden garlic bread
Fresh, herb-packed bruschetta
Nacho seasoning ready for movie night
Whisk-and-go Italian salad dressing
Just add simple ingredients (like olive oil, bread, or veggies), and let the blend do the rest.
They’re your shortcut to reliable, crave-worthy flavour — every time.
ordering, shipping & packaging
where do you ship from?
All orders ship from Toronto, Ontario, with some fulfillment from Oakville.
do you ship internationally or to the U.S.?
Yes! We ship across North America, including the United States.
how long will my order take to ship?
Orders are packaged and shipped within 1–5 business days.
Delivery times vary by carrier — we use Purolator, UPS, and Canada Post.
GTA orders typically arrive within 1–4 days of shipping.
Need it faster? Email us at info@thespicedrawer.ca, and we’ll do our best to expedite your order — no extra fees.
can I send your products as a gift?
Of course! Just enter the recipient’s address at checkout.
If you’d like us to remove pricing from the packing slip, just send a quick note to info@thespicedrawer.ca after placing your order.
do you offer custom or bulk orders for events?
Absolutely! We love creating custom and bulk orders for events, weddings, and corporate gifting.
Minimums apply, but we’re happy to work with your needs.
Email info@thespicedrawer.ca with your ideas (detailed or vague — both are welcome), and we’ll help bring them to life.
what’s your return or refund policy?
Due to the nature of food products, we’re unable to accept returns or offer refunds once items have been opened or shipped.
If your order arrives damaged or there’s an issue, contact info@thespicedrawer.ca
— we’ll always do our best to make it right.
wholesale & retail
do you offer wholesale pricing?
Yes! We offer flexible wholesale options for retailers and stockists.
Email info@thespicedrawer.ca to get started.
do you offer private label or co-branding options?
Absolutely. We can customize blends and packaging to suit your brand, event, or vision.
Email info@thespicedrawer.ca and let’s bring your idea to life.
what makes your blends different?
A lot...
A Cure for Culinary Monotony: Our blends turn everyday meals into something exciting.
Effortless Enjoyment: Say goodbye to guesswork — every blend is tested for foolproof flavour.
Local Craftsmanship: Handcrafted in small batches in a Toronto commercial kitchen.
True Canadian Roots: Ingredients and packaging are sourced solely from Canadian based suppliers.
Creative Innovation: Playful twists on classics and bold, unexpected flavour pairings.
Perfected Precision: Every blend is tested (and retested) for consistently delicious results.
what are your most popular blends?
Our top two blends are always neck-and-neck for first place:
Italian Herb, Garlic & Veg: A savoury, herb-forward blend with soft garlic and sweet bell pepper notes.
Everything Bagel with Fried Onions: A crunchy, onion-forward twist on a classic.
Both are customer favourites — and sure bets for gifting!
how can I stay inspired to cook with your blends?
At the heart of The Spice Drawer is our mission to make home cooking easy, fun, and creative.
Explore recipes on our recipes page, or join us on Substack for tips, flavour experiments, and inspiration to keep your spice drawer (and kitchen) buzzing.