How To Identify Pure Honey At Home?
Viscosity: Pure honey is thicker.
Aroma: Real honey has a distinct, sweet aroma that reflects the flowers from which it was made.
Purity Test: Mix a spoonful of honey with water. Pure honey will stay intact, while adulterated honey may dissolve.
Why Does Honey Crystallize?
Honey crystallisation is a natural process that occurs when honey changes from a liquid to a semi-solid state. This occurs because honey is a supersaturated solution of sugars, chiefly glucose and fructose. It has more sugar than water, and there isn't sufficient liquid to keep the sugar dissolved. As a result, it can begin to separate and produce honey crystals over time. All raw honey crystallizes.
Does Honey Go Bad When It Crystallizes?
No, crystallized honey doesn't go bad. When honey crystallizes, it's simply undergoing a natural transformation, and it's perfectly safe to consume. You just need to decrystallize your honey before it ferments.
How To Transform Crystallized Honey Back To Liquid Form?
The solution is simple: place the honey jar in lukewarm water, making sure not to exceed 104°F (40°C), and gently stir the honey until it regains its smooth consistency.
How Many Times Can You Decrystallize Honey?
Honey can be decrystallized multiple times without affecting its quality. As long as you follow the gentle warming method, you can use crystallized honey again and again.
How To Keep Honey From Crystallizing At Home?
To keep honey in its smooth, liquid state, follow these essential storage tips:
Room Temperature: Store honey at around 70°F (21°C) to prevent crystallization.
Dark & Dry Place: Store it in a dark cupboard or pantry away from direct sunlight.
Avoid Refrigeration: Do not refrigerate honey as colder temperatures can accelerate crystallization due to glucose precipitation.
Sources:
https://www.beeculture.com/the-science-behind-crystallized-honey/
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10942919909524606?needAccess=true/
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10942910500473962?src=recsys/
