FAQ
Single Origin Spices
Why use single origin spices?
As foodies, we are used to single origin coffee and we understand the implications for taste and sustainability. It’s now time that we extend this same standard to spices. Single-origin means preserving and optimising the flavour of a unique terroir, while supporting small farm-holders - enabling direct trade and bypassing brokers who drive prices up and quality down. Depending on the type and whether it’s whole or ground, spices can lose their potency if mishandled, so choosing ‘single source’ means the valuable volatile oils do not evaporate as they often do when spices change hands in the international trade. Each of BoTree’s spices come from a single region with the ideal growing climate, for example, Flowering Hyssop Thyme from Turkey, Cloud Forest Cardamom from Guatemala and Herati Saffron from Afghanistan.
How long will my spices last?
Unfortunately spices are not like a fine wine - they do not get better as they age. Spices taste better the sooner you eat them. The flavour and aroma of our single origin spices will stay good for roughly 2 years from the harvest. However, the shelf life of our spices varies from spice to spice, depending on which part of the plant they are harvested from. Generally, whole spices will stay fresh longer than ground spices.
Why should I use BoTree spices instead of supermarket spices?
We advise against using supermarket spices as they have a much longer supply chain and in the process, they lose their potency. Supermarket spices are typically ground spices which oxidise and lose their flavour quickly - and often you will be buying spices from supermarkets which have already gone stale. While most spices from supermarkets spend a few years in transit, our spices are transported directly from our partner farms - bringing them to you as fresh as possible.
How should I store my spices?
Ideally, you want to keep your spices somewhere nearby your cooking station to encourage daily use! Don’t lock them away in a cupboard and forget about them (very important!) But we do recommend storing your spices somewhere dark and cool - away from any humidity and the heat of a stove or direct sunlight.
How much spice should I use when cooking?
Because our spices are much more flavourful than your average supermarket spice - we advise using a little less than you normally would with a supermarket spice, and then you can gradually add more to taste.
How should I grind my spices?
There are so many ways! It’s really a matter of preference, but you can use a pestle and mortar, a grinder or a food processor.
Are your spices organic?
While all of our spices are single origin and use organic farming methods, not all of our partner farms are certified as ‘organic’ as certifications are often too expensive for independent farmers to afford. However, we can assure you, all our spices are free of toxic pesticides and caustic fertilisers. Our spices are harvested using traditional artisan techniques; hand-picked and sorted, dried naturally and transported whole to preserve freshness. We only support healthy working environments which means you can eat products confidently, knowing you are putting natural, chemical-free ingredients into your body.
Are your spices gluten-free?
Yes! We can safely say none of our spices contain gluten, and there's virtually no chance of cross-contamination with any products containing gluten.
However, because our spices are not third party-certified gluten-free, if you have a severe gluten sensitivity, please use with caution.
Are your spices non-GMO?
Absolutely! Every single one of our spices are free from any GMO’s.
What is the difference between Royal Cinnamon and Cinnamon Verum?
Well, like all spices there is a lot more about them that meets the eye (and a lot more history and tradition than we usually pay attention to). Royal Cinnamon is super sweet, super spicy. Cinnamon Verum is more herbal and savoury. So depending on what you are cooking (or baking) you can choose the type that elevates the flavours you need in your dish.
Kampot Pepper
What is so special about Kampot Pepper?
Kampot Pepper is the only pepper in the world to have Protected Geographical Indication status, which means that it must meet specific, highly-regulated standards. With potency and incredible depth, its tasting notes will surprise your palate and make you never go back to mainstream pepper. Red, white or black varieties can be paired (just like wine) with different types of cuisines and ingredients for optimal results.
How do I know which pepper I should use?
Our range of black, red and white Kampot pepper all serve different purposes. Black Kampot pepper has a citrus aroma combined with medium heat to produce an intensely warm taste sensation, which will transform robust meat dishes, BBQs, savoury dishes and the best peppercorn sauce you’ve ever tasted! Red Kampot pepper has a sweeter, fruitier and more aromatic flavour combined with a wonderfully subtle heat which works particularly well with foods that have (or need) added sweetness like game, pork, shellfish and salad dressings. White Kampot pepper has zesty, nutty flavours combine with an underlying heat that just keeps going - delicious with white sauces, cheese, soups and Asian cooking.
Shipping and Orders
What is your shipping policy?
UK orders will be charged a standard shipping rate of £3.39, this covers all postage & packing on all items. You will always be able to see this charge before you place your order. You can upgrade to a faster tracked service at checkout.
We aim to pack and dispatch your order within 1 working days. We would like to have your Pepper and Spices with you within 5 working days however, we will not take any responsibility for any orders delayed by any circumstance beyond our control.
If you've changed your mind, don't worry, so long as we haven't yet dispatched your order we can cancel, all we ask is that you get in touch with us as soon as possible.If you have any queries at all about our delivery & returns policy please feel free to get in touch using our contact page.
This returns policy does not affect your statutory rights
Returns and Refunds
Refunds and Exchanges are to be returned via post - Please return all products via post to BoTree Farm Ltd, Drummonie House, Bridge of Earn, Perthshire PH2 9HN
ALL returns must be returned via post.
We offer a no quibble refund policy. Return within 30 days of receiving your purchase and we will exchange or refund providing the goods have been unopenedand undamaged - Returns will ONLY be accepted with PROOF OF PURCHASE.
Please note that refunds DO NOT APPLY TO SALE PRODUCTS (sale goods and items with any form of discount are none refundable - exchange only) we will however exchange the item with in 2 weeks of purchase if you are not completely satisfied. This does not affect your statutory rights.
How do I order wholesale?
We have a very simple sign-up process for wholesale enquires. Click here
Any other questions?
Please contact us