Avoid this honey. Two signs show it's spoiled
Honey is typically known for its long shelf life, particularly when it is well sealed in a jar. This means that honey can still be consumed safely past its labeled expiration date. However, there can be instances where the product degrades, which can be identified by two crucial signs. Should these signs be present, it is advised not to consume the honey.
4:11 PM EST, November 19, 2023
For ideal storage, honey should be kept in a relatively cool place, safe from direct sunlight. The optimal place is inside a kitchen cabinet, where the temperature is consistently stable and does not surpass 77 °F.
Can honey really spoil?
If produced without any additives, honey usually lasts for about three years. If additives are used, then the lifespan reduces to two years. However, even if the honey has reached the end of these time frames, it does not necessarily go to waste. Properly stored honey that remains sealed in a jar can still be good for consumption, but may have lost some nutritional properties. This suggests that honey doesn’t easily spoil.
Honey generally doesn't spoil. In fact, ancient honey that is thousands of years old has been found preserved in Egyptian tombs. Honey has hygroscopic properties, which means it attracts water. Bees first place nectar in the comb, then add various enzymes, and water evaporates. This whole process causes the honey to thicken. If harvested too soon, it might contain too much water and begin to ferment.
Honey can start to crystallize, which is a natural process, or it may ferment. Fermentation happens when the honey jar is left open, allowing the product to attract water vapor. Additionally, introducing bacteria by means of a licked spoon into the jar can also expedite the fermentation process. To avoid this, it's essential to prevent water from coming into contact with the honey.
Identifying compromised honey
There are two observable signs of spoiled honey. Upon opening the jar, you might hear a distinctive hiss, followed by the emergence of foam with bubbles and a strong, yeasty aroma comparable to the smell of beer. These are indications that the honey has fermented and should be avoided.
Wondering how to recognize genuine honey? Here are a few telltale signs:
- It does not dissolve in cold water,
- It pours evenly,
- It does not break,
- It causes a slight scratching sensation in your throat,
- It crystallizes (if it remains liquid, the honey may simply be a mixture of sugar and water).
