Question 1

Does honey go off?

Accepted Answer

Honey is one of the few foods that doesn't spoil as long as it's stored correctly. Its low moisture content and natural acidity keep bacteria and mould at bay, so it can last for years. The flavour and texture are at their best within a couple of years but the honey itself remains safe to eat beyond that.

Question 2

How should I store honey?

Accepted Answer

Keep the jar sealed and somewhere cool, dry, and out of direct sunlight. A kitchen cupboard or pantry is ideal. Avoid the fridge, as the cold will speed up crystallisation.

Question 3

Why is there a best before date if honey doesn't really go off?

Accepted Answer

It's simply our way of guiding you to enjoy it while the flavour and texture are at their peak, rather than a sign it becomes unsafe afterwards. Honey kept well past this date is still perfectly fine to eat, just perhaps a little different in taste or texture from when it was freshly jarred.

Question 4

Why has my honey gone solid or grainy?

Accepted Answer

Nothing to worry about. This is completely natural. Honey is a supersaturated sugar solution and over time the glucose in it separates out and forms crystals. Because our honey is raw and minimally processed, it will crystallise faster than the runny, heavily filtered honey you might find in a supermarket. Many of our customers see this as a mark of quality.

Question 5

How can I make crystalised honey runny again?

Accepted Answer

Stand the jar (with the lid loosened) in a bowl of warm water and stir occasionally until it softens back down. Avoid using a microwave or boiling water as too much heat can damage the delicate flavours and natural enzymes we work hard to preserve.

Question 6

Is honey safe for children?

Accepted Answer

Please don't give honey to babies under 12 months old, as there's a small risk of infant botulism. It's absolutely fine from their first birthday onwards.

Question 7

Is honey suitable for vegans?

Accepted Answer

As honey is made by bees, it isn't considered vegan, though many vegetarians happily include it in their diet. It's very much a personal choice.

Question 8

Can I eat honey if I have hay fever?

Accepted Answer

Some people like to try local honey in the hope it helps with seasonal pollen sensitivity, though the evidence for this is mixed and it isn't a substitute for medical advice. As our honey is produced locally and contains trace pollen from the surrounding area, it's a popular choice for anyone wanting to try this for themselves.

Question 9

Is honey gluten free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, pure honey is naturally gluten free.

Frequently asked questions