Skip the Refrigerator

• The refrigerator is too cold to store honey. Although the honey won't spoil or go bad when refrigerated, the cold does cause it to form crystals more quickly. To slow crystallization and preserve the color of the honey, store it in a pantry. Room temperature storage prevents crystallization so the honey remains clear and runny longer. Store it in a dark area so bright light doesn't affect the color of the honey.

For the Long Haul

• Another reason honey doesn't require refrigeration is because it stores indefinitely, even without refrigeration. Although honey may darken or become cloudy, this does not affect its safety or quality. The flavor may also change slightly during prolonged storage. If you keep the honey in a tightly sealed, moisture-proof container, spoilage is rarely a concern because the honey is too high in sugar for most illness-causing organisms to grow.

Crystal Clear

• Although honey crystallizes more quickly in the refrigerator, it will eventually crystallize when stored at room temperature if you keep it for a long time. You can turn it liquid again by heating it slowly. Set the honey jar in a bowl of hot water and stir it occasionally until it reaches the desired consistency. If your honey is stored in a glass jar, you can set it in a pan of hot water on the stove to melt the crystals. Cool the honey to room temperature before replacing the lid and storing it again. You can repeat the process each time the honey crystallizes.

Spoil Sports

• Although honey doesn't spoil when properly packaged and stored, fungus or bacteria can begin to grow if water or food crumbs get into the jar. Using a clean spoon to dip honey or pouring it from the jar prevents contamination. Seal the jar tightly closed to keep moisture out. If your honey does become contaminated and develops visible mold or other signs of spoilage, such as a foul odor, throw it out without tasting it.