Does Honey Expire? Answering an eternal question.

Honey has been enjoyed by humans for thousands of years. Whether it's drizzled over pancakes, added to tea, or used as a natural sweetener in your baking, honey is a versatile and beloved ingredient.

However, there's a common question that often arises: does honey expire?

Contrary to popular belief, honey does not spoil or expire in the conventional sense. Archaeologists have discovered pots of honey in ancient Egyptian tombs that are over 3,000 years old and still perfectly edible. This remarkable longevity is due to the unique chemical composition of honey.

Honey has several properties that contribute to its long shelf life:

• It is a highly concentrated sugar solution, containing minimal moisture content. The low moisture content creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria and other microorganisms, and without water, these organisms cannot grow and spoil the honey.
• Honey has a low pH level, and this acidic environment further inhibits the growth of bacteria and other spoilage-causing organisms. 

Sometimes you may see your honey crystallised, however it does not indicate that the honey has gone bad; it is simply a natural process. To liquefy crystallised honey, gently heat it in a warm water bath or microwave with caution.

Although honey has an incredibly long shelf life, proper storage can help maintain its quality and prevent crystallisation. Here are a few guidelines:

1. Store honey in a tightly sealed container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
2. Avoid introducing moisture into the container, as this can promote bacterial growth.
3. Use a clean, dry spoon every time you scoop out honey to prevent contamination.
4. If desired, you can refrigerate honey to slow down the crystallization process. However, note that refrigeration can cause honey to thicken and become less viscous.

In summary, honey:

• Does not expire due to its high sugar concentration, low moisture content, acidic pH, and antibacterial properties contribute to its remarkable longevity.
• As long as it is stored properly, honey can be enjoyed for an indefinite period.

So, the next time you spot that ancient jar of honey at the back of your pantry, rest assured that it is still good to savour, adding sweetness to your life and dishes alike.

To add a new jar to your pantry, you can shop our organic, Italian Adi Apicoltura honey, here.