Before you throw that jar out, follow these tips to soften honey.
Over time, all honey will eventually take on a thick, solid form due to crystallization.
But is crystallized honey safe to eat?
Credit:Huseyin Asliyuce / Getty Images
What Causes Honey to Harden?
Honey primarily consists of water and two different types of sugar: glucose and fructose.
As the sugars naturally separate from the water over time, solid crystals start to form.
Typically, the higher the glucose, the quicker the crystallization.
A few other factors can also contribute to crystallization.
Is Crystallized Honey Safe to Consume?
Yourhoney hasnt gone badcrystallized honey is totally safe to consume, and the flavor or quality shouldnt be affected.
Sims says many consumers actually prefer the texture and spreadability of crystallized honey.
Simply drop a spoonful intoa cup of teaor spread it ontotoast.
Honey has a notoriously long shelf life, so crystallization isnt a sign that its past its prime.
