Honey Tips & Storage

Essential guidance for getting the most from your raw honey and keeping it fresh.

Don't add honey to boiling water

Wait until hot drinks have cooled slightly (to around warm, not scalding) before adding honey. Extremely hot water can reduce some of honey's delicate flavours and may affect beneficial enzymes.

Acid and dissolving

Honey and sugar dissolve less easily in very acidic liquids. If you add lemon to tea, add honey afterwards and stir well, or mix honey into warm (not boiling) water first before adding lemon.

Keep the jar tightly closed

Honey is hygroscopic and can absorb moisture from the air. Always close the jar after use to prevent dilution or fermentation.

Store properly

Keep honey in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight (cupboard or pantry). Do not refrigerate — refrigeration speeds crystallisation.

If your honey crystallises

This is natural. Gently warm the sealed jar in a warm water bath (not boiling) and stir until smooth. Avoid microwaving in the jar.

Avoid introducing moisture or crumbs

Use a clean, dry spoon. Moisture or food particles can promote fermentation or spoilage.

Do not feed infants under 12 months

Raw honey can contain spores that are unsafe for infants. Always follow medical guidance for infant feeding.

Label and rotate

If you store multiple batches, label jars with purchase or harvest date and use older jars first.

Looking for recipe ideas?

Discover delicious ways to use your honey with our collection of simple recipes.