Frequently asked questions
Is Heather honey the same as Manuka honey?
While Manuka is famous for its antibacterial properties, heather honey is its Northern Hemisphere rival. Recent studies have shown that heather honey (particularly from the Scottish Moors) contains exceptionally high levels of manganese and antioxidants. In some laboratory tests, heather honey has even outperformed Manuka in terms of its antimicrobial activity.
What is the best way to store my honey?
Keep your jar in a cool, dry place like a kitchen pantry. There is no need to refrigerate it—in fact, cold temperatures can make it too firm to scoop easily.
Is honey healthier than white sugar?
While honey is still sugar, it offers a few more benefits than the refined white stuff:
- Glycemic Index: Honey has a slightly lower GI than table sugar, meaning it doesn't spike blood sugar levels quite as rapidly.
- Nutrients: It contains trace amounts of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and enzymes.
- Satiety: Because it is sweeter than sugar, you can often use less of it to achieve the same taste.
Why can’t babies have honey?
Honey should never be given to infants under one year old. Honey can contain spores of Clostridium botulinum, which causes infant botulism.
- Why only babies? An adult’s mature digestive system can handle these spores easily, but a baby’s gut hasn't developed the necessary defenses yet.
Does honey ever expire?
The short answer is 'no'.
Honey can last indefinitely if sealed properly. Its longevity is due to its high sugar concentration, low moisture content, and naturally acidic pH, all of which create an environment where bacteria and microorganisms cannot grow.