Since my only alternative source would have been some supermarket chain outlet or distant, out of state source, I figured Kalustyan's would be my best bet. I've been a customer on & off for years & have never been let down & since I've been preparing food at home much more lately, for obvious reasons, here we are. I've kept my rating at mid range, because as stated the alternatives were never in contention. I have a home vacuum sealer that helps maintain freshness...to a point, so buying in semi-bulk is viable. My only complaint is I'm only just over 1 Mile away the $17 S&H is 12% of my $137 order. CD, NYC