While spice grinders are essential for salt, pepper, and many coarse spices that require a finer grind, sprinklers are often used for herbs. What about seasoning that contains a mixture of herbs and spices? Seasoning typically varies in consistency, depending on the blend. While some need to be ground, others are sprinkled. Grinding seasoning with a higher amount of herbs can result in an imbalance of flavour – especially if the herb is not usually ground. On the other hand, seasonings with a higher level of salt or coarse pepper may contain larger particles. When sprinkled over salads or other fresh food, the effect can often be overpowering.
Although it may sound obvious to use the general rule of coarse spices in a spice grinder and loose particles in a sprinkler, there’s more to consider when making your choice. Knowing which to use is key if your product range includes mixed seasoning as well as classic salt and pepper.
Spice Grinders or Sprinklers – Choosing the Right Option for Seasoning
Here are a few things to consider when choosing between spice grinders and sprinklers for seasoning that doesn’t easily fall into clear-cut categories.
Spice grinders
Spice grinders are best for seasoning blends that include coarse, whole or semi-whole herbs and spices. These could be anything from salt crystals and peppercorns to dried garlic flakes, dried onion flakes, coriander seeds, rosemary sprigs or dried chilli. Blends containing these herbs and spices work well when they’re freshly ground, as the grinding process makes the smell and flavour stronger as it’s ground onto food. This makes them ideal for dishes such as soups, sauces, roast vegetables, steak rubs, marinades, fish, chicken, and various other dishes that require a dose of stronger flavour.
Seasonings containing salt work very well in grinders, especially when combined with dry, firm herbs such as thyme, oregano or rosemary. Pepper-based seasoning also works well freshly ground, especially in flavoured seasonings such as lemon pepper or garlic pepper.
Adjustable grinders are ideal for salt and pepper-based seasonings – especially if they contain stronger additions such as garlic or chilli. This allows consumers more control over the particles they add to food.
Sprinklers
Sprinklers are ideal for evenly distributing fine to medium-textured seasoning blends, especially blends that don’t require grinding to release flavour. They work best with dry herbs and spices such as garlic salt, onion powder mixes, lemon herb blends, lemon and fine to medium-ground pepper, Italian herb mixes, braai and grill seasoning, and other blends. Because sprinklers dispense rather than grind, they’re best suited to blends containing pre-ground herbs and spices.
They’re a great choice when consistent distribution is needed. This includes seasoning chips, salads, popcorn, grilled veggies or meats just before cooking. Herbs in sprinkler blends are typically finely chopped or crumbled. For herbs such as parsley, finely ground rosemary, sage, oregano, dill and basil, this is especially important as larger flakes can clog the holes depending on the sprinkler design. Teaspoon hole sprinklers are best for larger flakes for cooking, such as curry leaves, Italian herbs, onion flakes or pre-cut dried herbs. Medium flakes work best in 5 Hole, 7 Hole and 8 Hole, while 18 Hole is best for lighter seasoning containing finely-ground spices like cinnamon, paprika, ginger, cayenne pepper or coriander.
For herbs that can be sprinkled over food or used in larger amounts for cooking, dual-top sprinklers are a good choice. These give consumers more control. Ultimately, the important thing is to match the blend’s overall texture with the right sprinkler to prevent clumping and ensure even distribution.
Which is best for your needs?
Depending on the ingredients in your blend, both grinders and sprinklers can be used. If your primary seasoning range uses salt as a base ingredient, grinders may be the best choice. If your range includes looser particles, flakes or herbs, sprinklers are a good choice.
At Global Grinders, we offer a large range of grinders as well as sprinklers, including flip top closures and shaker caps. We also offer a selection of glass and PET bottles made to fit sprinklers and grinders in a variety of shapes and sizes. For spice producers with a large product range that includes salt, pepper and a variety of seasonings, investing in both types gives you the benefit of ensuring that consumers can always enjoy your product.
Contact us today to find out more about our ISO-certified spice grinders and sprinklers, and let us help you choose the best option for your seasoning range.