Keeping honey at its best: Storage tips and tricks
Honey is one of the few food products that never spoils. However, proper storage is key to avoiding crystallization and loss of aroma.
Honey is known for its longevity, but over time it can undergo physical and chemical changes. It might lose its aroma and taste, and also darken or crystallize. Although packaging often states a two-year shelf life, properly stored honey maintains its quality much longer.
How to store honey to avoid crystallization?
Frank Mortimer, a master beekeeper from Cornell University, emphasizes that honey is the only food product that never spoils and is always safe to consume. He adds that it can have an almost unlimited shelf life, lasting for decades or longer if stored properly.
Dawn Combs, a beekeeper, recommends storing honey in a warm and dark place, such as a cabinet near the oven. These conditions mimic the hive environment, which reduces the risk of honey crystallizing. However, if honey does crystallize, it can be liquefied again by placing the jar in warm (not boiling) water.
Why should honey be stored in glass jars?
Honey should always be stored in glass jars. The sugars in honey attract moisture from the air, which can lead to the growth of undesirable yeasts. Although many brands offer honey in plastic containers, it is beneficial to transfer it to glass to preserve its freshness. Dawn Combs warns that plastic is known for its permeability to water vapor, gases, and odors. This means that when storing honey in plastic, it can lose moisture or, worse, gain it.
Where to store honey?
- In a dark place — such as a kitchen cabinet, pantry, or cupboard, away from light (light can weaken its properties),
- At room temperature — ideally about 10-20°C. Not in the refrigerator, as honey quickly crystallizes and hardens there,
- Away from heat sources — an oven, stove, or heater is poor proximity because high temperatures destroy the enzymes and valuable properties of honey.
