Honey has a reputation for keeping almost forever. This is partly true, but only if it is stored properly. A bad spot in the kitchen, a badly closed lid or a damp spoon is enough to spoil a good honey. Here are the simple rules to keep all its flavour, jar after jar.
Why honey keeps so well
Honey contains very little water, usually less than 20%, and a great deal of natural sugars. In these conditions, most micro-organisms cannot grow. That is why well-stored honey stays good for a very long time.
However, it has one weak point: it absorbs moisture from the air. If a honey takes on too much water, it can ferment. Good storage is therefore all about protecting it from moisture, heat and light.
The 5 golden rules
1. At room temperature
Honey is ideally stored between 15 and 20 °C, in a cupboard. The fridge is unnecessary and even speeds up crystallisation. By contrast, avoid heat: do not store it above the oven, next to the hob or in direct sunlight.
2. Away from light
Light, especially sunlight, can alter the colour and aromas of honey over time. A closed cupboard is therefore better than a windowsill.
3. Lid tightly closed
This is the most important rule. A badly closed jar lets in moisture from the air, as well as kitchen smells, because honey easily absorbs them. So close it carefully after each use.
4. A clean, dry spoon
A wet spoon brings water into the jar. Likewise, a spoon that has been used for something else, such as butter or jam, can bring in crumbs or other food. Always use a clean, completely dry spoon.
5. In its glass jar
Glass does not transfer any taste and protects honey well. That is also why our honeys are packed in recyclable glass jars. Avoid transferring it into an unsuitable metal container or one that does not close properly.
How long does honey keep?
On the jars, you will find a best-before date, often set at two years. It is a “best before” date: after it, the honey may lose some of its aromas, but it is not dangerous if it has been stored properly.
So our honeys keep all their qualities for at least two years, provided you follow the rules above.
After opening: what changes
Once opened, honey keeps almost as well as an unopened jar, as long as it stays away from moisture. So you do not need to finish it quickly. Simply remember to close the jar properly and use a dry spoon each time.
Crystallised or fermented: how to tell the difference
Over time, most honeys crystallise : they become thick and grainy. This is perfectly normal, and the honey stays perfectly good. You can also make it runny again in a water bath, without exceeding 40 °C. We explain everything in our article Why does honey crystallise?
La fermentation, on the other hand, is a sign that a honey has absorbed moisture. You can recognise it by foam on the surface, small bubbles and a sour, slightly alcoholic smell. In that case, it is best not to eat it as it is.
Mistakes to avoid
- Putting it in the fridge : it hardens faster, with no benefit.
- Leaving it near a source of heat : heat damages its aromas.
- Leaving it open : it absorbs moisture and smells.
- Heating it too much, in the microwave or in boiling water, to make it runny.
- Leaving it in a car in summer : the temperature rises very quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Should honey be kept in the fridge?
No. Cold does not help it keep, and it speeds up crystallisation. Keep it in a cupboard instead, at room temperature.
Can honey go off?
Well-stored honey stays good for a very long time. The date on the jar is a “best before” date: after it, the honey may lose some of its aromas.
How long does an opened jar of honey keep?
As long as an unopened jar, provided you close the lid properly and use a clean, dry spoon. Our honeys keep their qualities for at least two years.
How can I tell if honey has gone bad?
If it shows foam on the surface, bubbles and a sour smell, it has probably fermented. Simple crystallisation, on the other hand, is normal and harmless.
Can honey be frozen?
Yes, it is possible, but rarely useful. The freezer slows down crystallisation. Simply let it return to room temperature before opening it, to avoid condensation.
Ready to fill your cupboard? Discover our African honeys, packed in 200 g recyclable glass jars.
