Quick answer: Store honey in a tightly closed jar at room temperature, away from direct sun, and always use a clean, dry spoon. Don't refrigerate it, because the cold only makes it crystallise faster. Kept dry, honey lasts a very long time; the real enemy is moisture, which can make it ferment, especially in the monsoon. Crystallised honey is not spoiled and can be softened in warm water.
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Keep the lid tightly closed | Leave the jar open in humid weather |
| Use a clean, dry spoon | Dip in a wet or used spoon |
| Store at room temperature, out of sunlight | Keep it next to the stove or in a sunny window |
| Keep it in its glass jar | Store it in an open bowl or reactive metal container |
| Warm a set jar gently in warm water | Microwave it or put it in boiling water |
How to store honey: step by step
- Close the lid after every use. Honey absorbs moisture from the air. A loose lid in humid weather lets water in.
- Use a dry spoon every time. A wet spoon adds water directly. A used spoon can add crumbs and yeast.
- Keep it at room temperature. A kitchen shelf or cupboard is ideal. No fridge needed.
- Keep it away from heat and sun. Heat slowly reduces honey's aroma and enzymes. See what heat does to honey.
- Keep the original glass jar. Glass doesn't react with honey and keeps out smells.
Should honey be refrigerated?
No. Cold temperatures speed up crystallisation and make honey hard to spoon. Room temperature is best for everyday honey.
Storing honey in the monsoon
Humid months are when most honey problems happen. Honey usually contains about 17–20% water. If it picks up more moisture from the air or a wet spoon, natural yeasts can start to ferment it. Watch for:
- a sour or alcoholic smell
- foam or bubbles on the surface
- a thin, watery layer on top
If you see these, don't eat it. To prevent it, keep the lid tight and the spoon dry, and in very humid places buy a size you'll finish within a few months. More tips in Hindi: barsaat mein honey kaise store karein.
Crystallised honey is normal
Raw honey often turns thick and grainy, especially in winter. That's natural glucose crystallising, not spoilage. To soften it, stand the closed jar in warm (not boiling) water for 15–30 minutes and stir. Or enjoy it thick on toast. Read why raw honey crystallises.
Does honey expire?
Honey that stays sealed and dry keeps for a very long time, because its low water and high sugar content make it hard for microbes to grow. Jars carry a "best before" date because food labelling rules require one. After that date the honey may slowly darken and lose some aroma, but if it smells normal and shows no signs of fermentation, it is generally still good to eat.
How long does an opened jar last?
With a tight lid and a dry spoon, an opened jar keeps well for many months. For the best flavour, use it within the year.
Keep reading: raw vs processed honey, how to buy real honey online and best raw honey in India.
Frequently asked questions
Can honey go bad?
Honey rarely spoils, but it can ferment if it absorbs water. Keep it closed and use a dry spoon.
Why has my honey turned solid?
It has crystallised, which is normal for raw honey. Warm the closed jar gently in warm water.
Can I store honey in a plastic jar?
Food-grade containers are fine for a short time, but glass is best for long storage.
Shahad kaise store karein?
Dhakkan hamesha tight band rakhein, sukha chammach use karein, aur jar ko kamre ke taapmaan par, dhoop se door rakhein. Fridge mein rakhne ki zaroorat nahi.
About the author
Pranjal Patel is the founder of Shuddhta Organic and oversees sourcing and batch testing for its raw honeys. Read our story.
Sources
Last updated: 12 October 2026.
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