There’s a lot of buzz about raw honey’s incredible shelf life, and rightfully so. After all, archaeologists have discovered pots of honey in ancient Egyptian tombs that were still edible thousands of years later.
But while honey itself is naturally resistant to spoiling, the way you store it can impact its quality and flavor over time. If you’ve recently splurged on a large batch of nature’s sweetest gift, it’s important to know how to store bulk raw honey to keep it fresh for longer.
The Ideal Environment for Honey Storage
Raw honey thrives in cool, dry environments. Heat is its biggest enemy; temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit can degrade its natural enzymes and antioxidants, while prolonged exposure to heat accelerates crystallization.
Similarly, moisture is another factor you must consider. Honey is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. Sealing your honey in an airtight container and keeping it at room temperature, ideally between 50 and 70 degrees, is the best way to preserve its texture and flavor.
Choosing the Right Container
Glass jars are ideal for storing raw honey because they’re nonreactive and maintain the honey’s quality over time. Plastic containers are another option, but they must be food-grade and free of cracks to prevent moisture from sneaking in.
Suppose your honey came in a bulk-sized container. In that case, you may consider transferring portions of the honey into smaller jars for everyday use, as this reduces the need to constantly open and close the bulk container, minimizing air exposure.
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When and How To Deal With Crystallization
Even with these best storage practices, raw honey may crystallize over time. It’s a completely natural process that occurs because honey contains glucose, one of its natural sugars, which tends to solidify in cooler temperatures.
Crystallization doesn’t mean your honey has gone bad; in fact, many people enjoy the spreadable, creamy texture crystallized honey offers. If you prefer liquid honey, there’s an easy fix. Place the jar in a bowl of warm water and gently stir until it returns to its liquid state.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Knowing how to store bulk raw honey to keep it fresh for longer isn’t just about prolonging its shelf life; it’s about maintaining the incredible quality and flavor that make raw honey so special. By investing time and effort into proper storage, your honey will retain its natural sweetness, nutritional value, and unique characteristics for as long as possible.