Facts & Questions

No *Honey has an indefinite shelf life and does not spoil. Archaeologists have found pots of honey in ancient Egyptian tombs that are over 3,000 years old and still perfectly edible. Its natural composition, low water content, and acidic pH create an environment that inhibits the growth of microorganisms and spoilage.

Honey crystallizes because of its natural sugar composition, primarily containing glucose and fructose. When the ratio of glucose to fructose shifts, and the honey becomes supersaturated with sugar, crystals form. These crystals give honey a grainy or solid texture.

Crystallization is absolutely okay and natural for honey. It doesn’t mean the honey has gone bad; in fact, it’s a sign of purity and quality. Honey crystallization is a reversible process, and it doesn’t affect the taste or nutritional value. Crystallized honey is still perfectly safe to eat.

The crystallization process can be influenced by factors like temperature, the honey’s floral source, and impurities present. If you prefer liquid honey, you can easily return it to its liquid state by gently warming it. Placing the honey container in warm water or using a microwave on low power with intermittent stirring will dissolve the crystals without compromising the honey’s quality.

So, don’t worry if your honey becomes a bit solid over time—it’s just honey being its natural, versatile self. You can enjoy it in its crystallized form or bring it back to liquid with a little warmth.

Wax dipping is done to protect wooden bee boxes from weathering, decay, and pests. The wax creates a protective barrier, extending the life of the hive equipment. It’s not mandatory but is often recommended, especially in regions with harsh weather conditions. Wax dipping enhances the durability of bee boxes, making them more resistant to moisture and pests. Some beekeepers may wax dip annually, while others do it every few years.

Typically, a mixture of paraffin and microcrystalline wax is used for dipping bee boxes. This mix is designed to remain hard in the summer heat and will impregnate the wood. It also means that it can be heated up to a temperature that will kill pathogens. Some beekeepers may use a blend of waxes and natural resins.

They can, but the wax will cling to the metal. It may fill the screen holes in the bottom board if not immediately wiped, and it will dull the shine of the lid. It will work fine, but you may not be pleased with how it looks.

Our Honey is Processed and prepared without state inspection.

Honey Nutrition Facts

 

The USDA provides the following nutritional information.

 1 tablespoon (21 grams) = 1 serving.

 
  • Calories: 64
  • Fat: 0g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 17g
  • Protein: 0.1g
  • Potassium: 10.9mg
  • Iron: 0.1mg
  • Calcium: 1.3mg

 *Health Warning For Infants*  

The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to never give honey to babies during the first year of life. It is a potential source of botulism-causing spores which can lead to severe illness in young babies.

 

Vitamins and Minerals

The vitamins and minerals in honey may include B vitamins, calcium, copper, iron, zinc, and others, which are mainly derived from the soil and nectar‐producing plants. The quality of honey and its mineral content are determined by where the flowers are grown and how it is processed.

 

Varieties Of Honey

There are more than 300 varieties of honey in the United States, each originating from unique flower sources and different climate regions. Examples include clover honey, wildflower honey, orange blossom honey, buckwheat honey, avocado honey, and alfalfa honey.

 

 

May Soothe a Cough 

Research suggests honey may help calm a cough. A review of six studies treating coughs in children found that a spoonful of honey suppresses a cough as well as dextromethorphan—the cough suppressant found in Robitussin DM—and better than Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or no treatment. The research also found honey may provide longer relief than Albuterol (salbutamol).