Properly stored, whole black peppercorns will generally stay at best quality for about 3 to 4 years. ... No, commercially packaged whole black peppercorns do not spoil, but they will start to lose potency over time and not flavor food as intended - the storage time shown is for best quality only.

Can you use out of date peppercorns?

Black pepper doesn't expire, and the date on the label only informs you how long the spice should retain quality. You can use pepper for months (or even years) past its date, but remember that the taste will slowly fade away.

Can I use expired black pepper?

As mentioned, black pepper does not expire. It might lose its taste and potency. But, it does not go bad in the same sense as other packaged goods do. So, if you consume it past its usage date, nothing will happen.