Honey is often referred to as liquid gold — and for good reason. It’s not only delicious and versatile, but it also boasts an incredible shelf life. In fact, archaeologists have discovered pots of perfectly preserved honey in ancient Egyptian tombs, still edible after thousands of years.
But don’t be fooled: while honey doesn’t spoil in the traditional sense, how you store it can greatly affect its taste, texture, and overall quality. Whether you use honey for cooking, natural remedies, or skincare, knowing how to store it correctly ensures that every drop remains as fresh as the day you bought it.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about storing honey the right way — from containers and temperature to crystallization and rehydration.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Though honey has natural antibacterial properties and a low moisture content (both of which help prevent spoilage), it is still vulnerable to environmental factors such as:
• Moisture: Too much moisture can lead to fermentation.
• Heat: High temperatures can degrade honey’s enzymes and flavor.
• Light: Exposure to sunlight may darken honey and diminish its antioxidants.
• Air: Constant exposure to air can change honey’s composition over time.
So while honey won’t go “bad” in the way milk or meat does, improper storage can change its aroma, color, consistency, and nutritional benefits.
The Best Container for Storing Honey
Choosing the right container is your first line of defense. Here’s what to look for:
• Airtight: Always store honey in a tightly sealed container to prevent moisture absorption and contamination.
• Non-reactive: Glass jars are ideal, as they don’t interact with honey’s natural acidity. Food-grade plastic is also acceptable. Avoid storing honey in metal containers, especially uncoated ones, as this can cause a reaction that alters the taste and quality.
• Opaque or Dark-Colored (optional): While not necessary, using a dark container or keeping honey in the dark helps prevent light damage.
Pro Tip: If you buy honey in bulk, consider transferring smaller amounts into a working jar and storing the rest in a cool, dark pantry.
Ideal Temperature for Honey Storage
Honey loves room temperature. The sweet spot (pun intended) is:
Between 64°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C)
Keep it away from ovens, stoves, or windowsills where heat could build up. High temperatures can destroy honey’s beneficial enzymes and affect its flavor.
Avoid refrigeration!
One of the biggest mistakes people make is storing honey in the fridge. Cold temperatures accelerate crystallization, making honey hard and gritty.
Crystallization: What It Is and How to Handle It
Crystallization is when honey becomes thick and grainy — sometimes even solid. It’s completely natural and harmless, and actually a sign that your honey is raw and unprocessed.
What causes crystallization?
• Cool temperatures
• High glucose content (some floral sources, like clover, crystallize faster)
• Presence of particles (like pollen or wax, which are often found in raw honey)
How to fix it:
To restore crystallized honey to its smooth, liquid form, gently warm it using one of these methods:
• Warm water bath: Place the jar in a bowl of warm (not boiling) water and stir occasionally until the crystals dissolve.
• Low heat method: Warm the honey slowly on the stovetop using indirect heat (double boiler style).
⚠️ Avoid microwaving, as this can overheat the honey and destroy nutrients.
Does Honey Expire?
Technically, pure raw honey never expires if stored properly. However, most store-bought honey comes with a “best by” date — typically 2 years — for quality assurance purposes. Over time, honey may:
• Darken in color
• Lose some aroma or floral notes
• Develop a stronger flavor
These are signs of aging, not spoilage. Unless honey has developed a sour smell, foam, or visible mold (which can happen if moisture gets in), it’s still safe to consume.
Tips to Keep Honey at Its Best
• ✅ Use a clean, dry spoon every time to avoid contamination.
• ✅ Store honey in its original container if it’s airtight and food-safe.
• ✅ Keep it in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry.
• ✅ If honey crystallizes, gently reheat, don’t toss it out!
Final Thoughts
Storing honey properly is simple, but the benefits are long-lasting — literally. By protecting it from heat, moisture, and air, you can preserve its flavor, texture, and health benefits for years. Whether you’re using it to sweeten your tea, drizzle over toast, or treat a sore throat, fresh honey is always better.
So the next time you open that golden jar, you’ll know exactly how to keep it just as sweet as nature intended.