Crystallization of honey is a common issue among consumers. Many people may think that candied honey is fake or of poor quality. But is this really so? Is candied or crystallized honey really fake or the product of a natural process? Here is the answer to this question:
1. What is Crystallization? Crystallization of honey occurs when glucose in liquid form turns into crystals in solid form. This is a natural process and does not affect the purity or quality of the honey. On the contrary, it is expected that pure honey will crystallize over time.
2. Why Does It Crystallize? The crystallization rate of honey depends on the fructose and glucose ratio in its content. Honey containing high glucose crystallizes faster. Additionally, temperature also affects the crystallization process. At low temperatures, honey crystallizes faster, while at high temperatures this process slows down.
3. Is Candied Honey Fake? No. There is no evidence that crystallized or candied honey is fake. In fact, many experts state that the crystallization of honey is an indication that it is natural and unprocessed. Fake honey often has a reduced tendency to crystallize when mixed with sugar syrups or other sweeteners.
4. Benefits of Crystallized Honey Crystallized honey can have a creamy texture, making it ideal for use in various recipes or breakfasts. Additionally, the crystalline structure may help preserve honey's natural antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
5. Reliquefying Crystallized Honey If you do not want your honey to crystallize or if you want to bring your crystallized honey back to liquid form, you can achieve this transformation by heating the honey in a water bath at 40-50°C.
6. Fake Honey on the Market Of course, there are also honeys on the market that are not pure and are mixed with sugar or corn syrup. Therefore, you should carefully read the label information to understand whether the honey you will buy is truly pure and natural.
