Why does honey crystallize​

The crystallization of honey is not well understood by the consumers and many assume that crystallized honey is adulterated or ‘spoiled.’ This is not the case.   The crystallization process is natural and spontaneous. It occurs because of the natural qualities inside.  

When you buy a bottle or jar of honey, it is most probably in a beautiful, syrupy and gooey liquid form. As it sits on your shelf or table over time, however, it is likely to get grainy, crunchy and may even become completely solid.  This is what is referred to as crystallized honey.

Crystallization occurs because some of the molecules in honey eventually escapes from the liquid substance and form crystals.  The natural sugars in honey (glucose and fructose) will bind together and begin to form little crystals, which can start making your honey harder.   The crystals tend to multiply rapidly, so what’s left in the jar after a while is not something “different” but just honey in a semi-solid or solid form.  Pure, raw and unheated honey has a natural tendency to crystallize over time with no effect on the honey other than colour and texture.  And with differing blend or nectar sources, some honey will begin to crystallize faster than others. 

You can de-crystallize honey.  If you put the jar into a warm water bath and stir, that process will de-crystallize the honey and it will be soft and luscious liquid honey again.  Place the jar into a warm water bath, created by heating water in a pot on the stove. Stir the honey regularly, and within 30 minutes, you’ll have beautiful liquid honey again. Do not use hot water since high heat can damage the honey.

So, as you may have gathered by now, despite what many people may believe, Crystallized honey is not spoiled.  It is simply in a solid or semi-solid form instead of its beautiful liquid state.  Crystallization of honey actually preserves the flavour and quality characteristics of your honey and it is so delicious when used as a spread on bread, sprinkled into yogurt or over fruit, or used in recipes.  Crystallization of honey is simply a gift of nature.