Honey That Never Expires
In 2015, archaeologists excavating a tomb in Georgia discovered honey estimated to be 5,500 years old. It was still edible.
Pure, raw honey is remarkable. Its low moisture content, natural hydrogen peroxide content, and acidic pH combine to create an environment where bacteria and mould simply cannot survive. Properly stored, your jar of Honey Pride honey has no expiry date. None.
But "properly stored" is the key phrase. Here is how to do it right.
The Golden Rules of Honey Storage
Keep it sealed
Honey is hygroscopic — it absorbs moisture from the air. An unsealed jar of honey will slowly draw in ambient humidity, raising its moisture content. Once moisture exceeds around 20%, yeast naturally present in the honey can activate and fermentation begins. Always seal your jar tightly after each use.
Keep it away from heat
Temperatures above 40°C degrade the natural enzymes that give raw honey its health properties. They also cause the colour to darken and the complex floral flavour notes to simplify and flatten. Store honey away from your cooker, away from direct sunlight, and away from the top of your refrigerator.
Never refrigerate
Cold temperatures accelerate crystallisation significantly. While crystallised honey is perfectly safe to eat, many people find it inconvenient. Keep honey at room temperature.
Use a clean, dry spoon every time
The most common way honey is contaminated is through cross-contamination from a wet or food-contaminated spoon. Keep a dedicated dry honey spoon, or rinse and dry completely before dipping.
What About Crystallisation?
Crystallisation is not a sign of spoilage — it is a sign of quality. Pure honey crystallises because of its natural glucose content. Highly processed or adulterated honey often does not crystallise because the glucose has been altered or diluted.
If your honey crystallises and you prefer it liquid, gently warm the jar in a bowl of hot (not boiling) water, stirring occasionally. Do not microwave. Do not heat above 40°C.
From Our Hives in West Nile
At Honey Pride Arua, we harvest at the right moisture level and bottle without heating, so your honey arrives at its full enzymatic potential. Stored correctly in your kitchen, that jar will outlast most things in your home.
Buy a jar. Taste the forest. Keep it forever.