I remember when I was studying and I was doing some dessert my teacher said "put the three marias" referring to the nutmeg, the cinnamon and the clove. Venezuelan desserts and sweets always carry these spices.
When I make my loaves I like to grate a bit of nutmeg to give it a special touch, since I do not like to buy crushed because it loses a lot of its aroma.
Now to keep it fresh what we have to do is buy it whole to grate it when using it.
Other tips to keep it better stored in the freezer, will stay fresh for much longer.