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Two wooden shelves neatly lined with large glass Ball mason jars full of spices. Each jar is fitted with a black pour-handle lid and a bold, printed white label wrapped around the center. The top shelf contains jars labeled Oregano, Italian Seasoning, Ginger Powder, Turmeric, Basil, Cumin, and Red Chili Powder. The bottom shelf holds jars labeled Cayenne, Cinnamon, Red Pepper, Sweet Paprika, and Onion Powder, with small silver funnels and mason jar lids placed on the shelves in front of them.

Bulk Spice Refill Pantry

Learn more about this new initiative for sustainable food practices

Overview

The Office of Student Life and Advocacy is proud to support the Bulk Spice Refill Pantry, a new initiative provided by the NC State Sustainability Stewards with support from the Sustainability Fund.

The NC State Sustainability Stewards are a group of student leaders advancing campus-wide sustainability through hosting workshops, events, and initiatives. This particular initiative was created to provide a free, low-waste station for members of the NC State community in order to support sustainable and equitable cooking on campus.

Follow the Sustainability Stewards!

A group of around twenty young adults stands outdoors on a wooden deck in front of a building with blue-trimmed windows. Many in the group are smiling and making hand gestures, such as the "rock on" or "wolfpack" sign. In the foreground, two people hold a large white poster with handwritten text reading "SUSTAINABILITY STEWARDS" in bold green letters, along with icons and text for "Resource Conservation," "Waste Reduction," and "Community and Culture."

Location

The Bulk Spice Refill is located in 4111 Talley Student Union in Resiliency and Community Support. The suite is open Monday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. for patrons to grab what they need

  • Location: 4111 Talley Student Union (Resiliency and Community Support)
  • Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Types of Spices

For Fall 2026, there are fifteen (15) different spices available. Check them out below, including some recommended uses.

Name of SpiceRecommended Uses
BasilPasta, spaghetti sauce, pizza, tomato dishes, chicken
Black PepperProteins, veggies, eggs, cheeses
CayenneTacos, chili, soups, spicy dishes
CinnamonOatmeal, French toast, pancakes, baked good, sweet potatoes
CuminTacos, chili, fajitas, burritos, beans
Garlic PowderMeats (chicken, steak), potatoes, veggies, pasta, bread, soups
Ginger PowderStir-fry, curry, chicken, roasted carrots, soups
Italian SeasoningPasta, spaghetti sauce, pizza, chicken, meatballs, veggies
Onion PowderBurgers, meatloaf, chicken, potatoes, eggs, soups, dips
OreganoPizza, pasta, veggies, tacos
Red Chili PowderChili, tacos, curries, enchiladas, beans
Red PepperPizza, pasta, marinara, eggs, soups
SaltAnything savory!
Sweet PaprikaChicken, potatoes, deviled eggs, soups, stews
TurmericCurry, rice, veggies, lentils, chickpeas, eggs, soups

How it Works

  • Bring an empty spice jar (or small container)
  • Pick your spice
  • Use the funnel and pour spout to fill the jar/container
  • Close the bulk spice and place in its original location
  • Grab a sticker to label your jar/container
  • Use the broom and dustpan to clean any spills
  • Scan the QR code to check out and fill out the anonymous feedback form to let us know what you think!

NOTE: We previously provided empty spice jars, but we are currently out of stock. Please bring your own small jar/container.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can use the pantry?

Any NC State student or staff/faculty can use the pantry.

What hours can I access the pantry?

Monday – Friday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Is there a limit on how many spices I can take?

No limit, but please be mindful of others and take only a reasonable amount

What happens if I make a mess?

Use our designated broom and dustpan to clean up! If the mess is a little larger than anticipated, talk with Resiliency and Community Support staff about using a vacuum.

Do you have empty jars/containers I can use?

We previously provided empty spice jars, but we are currently out of stock. Please bring your own container.

Can I donate old spice jars?

We appreciate your interest in donating to this project! At this time we are not accepting donations but will communicate any changes made to that policy.

Feedback

We want to hear what you think about the Bulk Spice Pantry! Take a quick moment to share your anonymous feedback, let us know what you’re loving, and tell us what spices or items you’d like to see available in the future. Your input helps us make the pantry more useful for everyone.

Contact

For questions or concerns, contact the NC State Sustainability Stewards at [email protected].