aaboikis/iStock/GettyImages
Honey provides a naturally sweet substitute for processed sugar in your favorite recipes. The flavor and color of the honey is influenced by the variety of flowers the bees used to make it, so it can have a light golden color or develop a darker hue. Properly stored honey doesn't spoil, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, which allows for long-term storage when properly packaged.
Storage Length
Honey naturally contains little moisture. Bacteria, molds and other pathogens that cause spoilage can't grow in this low-moisture environment. Improperly stored honey may absorb moisture, which can cause these microorganisms to grow. Visible mold growth, foaming, or an alcohol odor means the honey has spoiled and must be discarded. This rarely occurs, so you can usually store honey for as long as desired.
Packaging
An airtight glass jar provides the best method for storing the honey for as long as possible. Only use clean jars with tight-fitting lids, or keep honey in its original container if the lid fits tightly. Honey tends to crystallize and harden during prolonged storage, so a glass jar is preferable over plastic because you can heat glass without fear of melting.
Storage Location
For best storage, keep honey in a dark pantry or cupboard. Keeping the honey at room temperature, or 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, slows crystallization. Honey will darken over time, but this is not an indication of spoilage. Avoid storing honey in humid or moist locations, because this may introduce water into the honey and limit its shelf life.
Crystallized Honey
When honey has eventually crystallized during long storage, you can melt the sugar crystals using heat so it returns to its liquid state. If it's stored in a glass jar, place the open jar in a pot of hot, but not boiling, water until the honey once again becomes liquid. For quicker melting, heat it in 10-second intervals in a microwave oven. The honey may crystallize again quickly, but you can melt it again before each use.
Related Articles

How to Liquify Honey
What Causes Honey to Crystalize

What Causes Honey to Ferment?

Can You Freeze Molasses?
How to Soften Crystalized Molasses
Can You Make Candy Using Honey Instead ...

Difference Between Clover & Orange ...

How to Store Cognac

How to Make Your Own Honey Lotion

What Can I Substitute for Malt Extract?

Substitute for Sorghum in Gingerbread
How to Seal Jelly With Wax

Simple Syrup Sugar Substitute

What Is the Difference in Black ...

Does Cream of Tartar Contain Dairy?

Why Does Wine Not Expire?

How to Soften Marzipan

List of the Different Types of Champagne

The Difference Between Brown and White ...

How to Store Discontinued Lipstick for ...
References
Writer Bio
Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening.