How to store honey
Whether a big brown bear or a tiny toddler, everyone loves honey. The delectable liquid has become a staple in kitchens around the world and is lovingly drizzled on almost anything from fluffy flapjacks to salty gammons. Yet honey doesn’t only play a vital part in our meals. The sweet nectar also has incredible healing properties and has been shown to combat infections, heal wounds and even boost the immune system.
With so many great benefits, it’s crucial that we take care of our honey so that it can have the best possible shelf life. Follow the simple steps below to make your honey last as long as possible:
1. Store in a glass jar
While it’s best to keep your honey in the container it originally came in, it might not always be food-safe. Some plastics can allow water in and even seep chemicals into your honey. To be safe, use glass jars. They are not only aesthetically pleasing but great for keeping an eye on the quality of your honey. However, if you don’t have a glass jar on hand, any food-safe plastic container will do.
2. Make sure it is airtight
Moisture can be detrimental to the lifespan of your honey. Even the smallest drop of water can speed up the fermentation process and cause your honey to become unusable. To avoid this, make sure that your jar or container is airtight and sealed correctly after using it.
3. Keep in a cool, dry place
A drastic change in temperature is not good for honey either. While some people store their honey in the fridge, it is not the best practice. Storing honey in the fridge or a warm place will increase the chances of moisture in the container, lowering its quality and promoting crystallisation. For the best result, keep your honey in a cool kitchen cupboard or pantry.
4. Avoid direct sunlight
Although it’s easier to leave your honey on the kitchen counter, excessive sunlight will cause it to darken in colour and reduce its quality. It’s important to always put your honey back in the cupboard after use and never leave it out in the open for it will also attract ants and other pesky critters.
5. What to do if it crystalises?
Honey does start to crystalise after a while. To return it to its liquid form, simply place your jar in some warm water and it will melt into its syrupy form. Take care though, as repeating the liquifying process too many times will hamper the flavour and freshness of your honey.
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