Many people wonder about the optimal storage spot for honey when they notice it has thickened and crystallised. The honey’s texture changes, becoming dense and cloudy due to increasing crystal formation, making it gritty, sugary, or sometimes having a creamy consistency.
This is a major reason why people discard perfectly fine honey, but there’s an easy way to prevent this: a straightforward storage tip, reports the Express. Honey connoisseurs from Asheville Bee Charmer explain: “All raw honey will crystallise over time, though the type of honey, method of storing, and temperature all affect how quickly it will crystallise.”
Temperature may be the key influence here, yet it proves to be one of the most difficult factors to manage. The honey specialists assert that crystallisation “happens much faster at lower temperatures”, especially under 10C (50F), advising against storing honey in cold areas like a basement or unheated mudroom.
In UK homes, it’s best to avoid placing honey in cooler areas such as conservatories, garages, or utility rooms where the temperature tends to be lower.
For honey to retain its velvety, fluid quality, the ideal preservation temperature is at room temperature, roughly 10-21C (50-70F), with a cool, dry cupboard offering the perfect conditions.
The team at Asheville Bee Charmer advocate taking it one step beyond and shunning honey stored in plastic.
They point out that plastic’s porous nature compared to glass increases the likelihood of moisture seeping in, which promotes crystallisation.
Opt for a glass container to ensure honey remains free from moisturejust be sure the lid is on tight.
No need for alarm if your honey has turned grainy; Just Bee Honey experts reassure UK folks that “there’s nothing wrong with crystallised honey”.
These sugary granules are splendid for culinary use, such as a crunchy topping for your morning oats.
To restore honey to its smooth consistency, warm tap water and a bowl will do the trick. Let the tap water heat up before placing your honey jar in the bowl, filling it about three-quarters high with water around the jar.
As you stir the honey with a teaspoon, take care not to splash any water inside the jar.
In case you suspect lower temperatures have caused your honey to harden, store it in a warmer spot, perhaps near some kind of heat source. Regarding shelf life, honey remains edible for many moons.