Why doesn't natural honey expire?

At Miel Mayem, we work every day to offer artisanal, natural, and excellent-quality honeys. We know that when someone tries our natural or raw honey, a question often arises: does honey expire?

It's normal to ask, especially when you see a best-before date on jars. But the truth is, honey doesn't expire. If stored properly, it can last indefinitely. We'll explain in simple terms why this happens and what you should keep in mind to enjoy it like it was the first day.

Honey is a unique product in nature. In fact, jars of honey have been found in Egyptian tombs over 3,000 years old, and it was still edible.

These natural factors explain its durability

The durability of natural honey is due to several factors:

Low water content

Honey has very little moisture, which prevents bacteria or mold from growing.

High concentration of sugars

Its composition helps to preserve it naturally, creating an environment where microorganisms cannot develop.

Acidic pH

Its natural acidity helps protect it against bacteria and fungi.

Antimicrobial substances

Bees add enzymes that enhance its preservation properties.
All this means that honey, if stored properly, does not spoil, even after a long time.

How to preserve honey so that it stays in the best condition?

Preserving honey is very simple: just store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat sources, and always use clean, dry utensils to avoid introducing moisture.

It doesn't need to be refrigerated or removed from its original jar. If you follow these tips, you'll be able to enjoy your natural or raw honey for as long as it was on the first day.

So why does it have a best before date?

Food regulations require a best-before date to be placed on packaged foods. In the case of honey, this date does not mean it will go bad or become unsafe.

It simply indicates the period during which honey maintains its optimal texture, aroma, and flavor characteristics. After this date, the honey may change color slightly or crystallize, but it remains perfectly edible.

I hope I've helped you better understand why natural honey doesn't expire. Later, I'll write another article explaining why it sometimes crystallizes, which is another common question. If you'd like to learn more about our natural honeys, you'll find a wide selection of top-quality honeys in our online store.