People Apparently Still Don’t Know What Paprika Is Made From

You’ve probably noticed that paprika can fade over time. That vibrant red slowly turns to a dull brownish-orange. This isn’t a sign of spoilage—it’s just the nature of the spice.

Paprika’s color comes from carotenoids (natural pigments). Exposure to light, heat, and air breaks these compounds down over time. To keep your paprika vibrant:

  • Store in an airtight container

  • Keep away from light (a dark cupboard is ideal)

  • Replace after about a year for best color and flavor