All About Coconut honey
Your complete guide to coconut honey - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Coconut honey Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for coconut honey in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
unopened pantry1-2 years past 'best by' date
Signs of Spoilage
Very rare if properly sealed. May include fermentation (gas bubbles, sour/alcoholic smell), mold growth (highly unlikely), or significant discoloration beyond natural darkening.
How to Check
Visually inspect the container for any bulging, signs of leakage, or unusual cloudiness. If transparent, check for any mold or active bubbling. Perform a smell test only if the seal appears compromised; an off-odor would indicate spoilage.
Storage Tips
Store in a cool, dry, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The high sugar content acts as a natural preservative, giving it a very long shelf life when unopened.
opened refrigerator12-18 months
Signs of Spoilage
Spoilage is significantly slowed in the refrigerator. Signs would be similar to pantry storage but much less likely: fermentation (bubbles, off-smell), mold growth (very rare), or distinct off-flavors.
How to Check
-
Visual inspection: Check for any mold (very rare), active bubbling, or extreme cloudiness.
-
Smell test: Sniff for any sour, alcoholic, or 'off' odors.
-
Taste test (small amount): If visual and smell tests pass, taste a tiny amount. Discard if it tastes sour, bitter, or otherwise unpleasant/fermented.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration is not strictly necessary for food safety due to the high sugar content but can help maintain optimal quality and extend freshness, especially in very warm or humid environments. Cold temperatures may cause the coconut honey to thicken considerably or crystallize. This is a natural physical change and does not indicate spoilage. To restore its liquid consistency, gently warm the container in a bowl of warm water.
opened pantry6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Fermentation (bubbles, sour/alcoholic smell, yeasty taste), mold growth (fuzzy spots, usually on the surface or around the rim), extreme cloudiness or unusual color changes, or development of off-flavors (e.g., chemical, bitter).
How to Check
-
Visual inspection: Look for any surface mold, active bubbling, or extreme cloudiness.
-
Smell test: Gently sniff for any sour, alcoholic, yeasty, or 'off' odors.
-
Taste test (small amount): If visual and smell tests pass, taste a tiny amount. Discard if it tastes sour, bitter, or otherwise unpleasant/fermented.
Storage Tips
Always keep the container tightly sealed to prevent exposure to air and contaminants. Use clean utensils when dispensing to avoid introducing bacteria or yeast. While generally shelf-stable, prolonged exposure to warm or humid conditions can accelerate spoilage. Crystallization can occur but is not a sign of spoilage; it can be reversed by gently warming the container.