🍯 Best Tips for Storing Raw Honey
Raw honey is nature’s timekeeper, rich with enzymes, pollen, and the memory of blossoms. When stored with care, it can last for years, retaining its flavour, texture, and vitality. Here’s how to honour your jar of golden goodness:
🏺 Choose the Right Container
Always store raw honey in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Honey is hygroscopic, it absorbs moisture from the air, which can lead to fermentation. Glass protects its purity far better than plastic, which can allow vapours and odours to seep in.
🌡️ Mind the Temperature
Keep your honey in a dark, dry cupboard at a stable temperature between 18–25 °C (65–75 °F). This mimics the hive environment and helps preserve its natural enzymes and aroma.
☀️ Avoid Light and Heat
Sunlight and high heat can degrade honey’s flavour and darken its colour. Store it away from windows, ovens, or stovetops. A pantry or cupboard is ideal.
❄️ Crystallisation Is Natural
Raw honey may crystallise over time, especially varieties like Tuart or Wandoo. This is a sign of purity, not spoilage. To re-liquefy, place the jar in a bowl of warm water (never boiling) and stir gently.
🐝 Long-Term Storage
For bulk or seasonal honey, consider vacuum-sealed glass jars or freezer storage. Just ensure the container is airtight and leave room for expansion.
Raw honey is a living food, each jar a reflection of season, soil, and bloom. With proper care, it will remain a sweet companion for years to come.
