Honey, the golden nectar produced by our buzzing friends the bees, has been treasured for centuries for its sweet taste and many health benefits. But have you ever thought about the shelf life of this natural wonder? How long can you keep that jar of honey in your pantry before it goes bad?
Factors affecting the shelf life of honey
Honey is known worldwide for its low water content and acidic pH. However, there are several factors that can affect its shelf life:
1. Storage conditions
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality of honey. Store in a cool and dry place, avoid direct sunlight, prevent crystallization and moisture absorption.
2. Pollution
Avoid introducing moisture, crumbs, or foreign particles into the honey jar, as they can promote bacterial growth and spoilage.
- Temperature
Exposure to high temperatures causes honey to lose its taste and aroma. It is best to store honey at or below room temperature to maintain its quality.
How long does honey last?
In general, pure honey has an indefinite shelf life if stored properly. It may crystallize over time, but this is a natural process and does not mean metamorphism. Simply place the honey jar in warm water to liquefy it again.
However, if your honey shows signs of fermentation (bubbling, sour, or rancid), it is best to throw it away as it may be contaminated or improperly stored.
FAQ
Can honey last 20 years?
Honey can be eaten for years, even decades, but honey is a natural product, which means it changes over time. For honey, these changes may include a darker color, thicker consistency, and a different taste. The change in honey is actually a good sign.
How do you know when honey’s gone bad?
“Honey doesn’t spoil, but for optimal quality, the USDA recommends storing honey for up to 12 months,” Amidror said. “After that, it’s still safe, but the quality may not be as good.” If honey becomes cloudy, crystallized or congealed, it’s not a food safety issue.”
Can honey last 10,000 years?
Natural, well-kept honey will not expire. In fact, archaeologists have found honey thousands of years old in ancient Egyptian tombs, and it’s still good!
When should you throw away honey?
As long as the seal is not broken, honey should be fine for many years to come. That being said, the quality of honey may change over time. According to the USDA, while honey is still safe to eat after 12 months, the quality may not be as good.
How long does raw honey live?
Not only that, under the right conditions, raw honey never expires. This incredible fact is backed up by Science and Archaeology. Historians are surprised to discover that raw honey found in ancient Egyptian tombs is still perfectly safe to eat!
What is the best way to store honey?
The best way to preserve honey is to store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Heat and humidity can cause honey to ferment or spoil, so it’s important to avoid exposing your honey to these conditions. It is also important to keep honey in an airtight container.
