How to Tell If Your Honey is Real: 3 Simple Tests You Can Do at Home

Honey—the sweet nectar of nature, used in teas, on toast, and in many traditional remedies. But here’s the sticky truth: not all honey sold is what it claims to be. With the rise in popularity of honey, the market has seen an increase in adulterated or fake honey, which often contains additives like corn syrup or sugar solutions. So how can you, a honey-loving consumer, tell if your honey is the real deal?

Let’s explore three simple tests you can do at home to make sure you’re getting the good stuff.

1. The Thumb Test

This is a quick and easy test to check the consistency of your honey. Simply put a small drop of honey on your thumb and see if it stays in place. Pure honey should remain intact and not spread like other syrups. If it does spread, there’s a chance it has been diluted with water or additives.

• What You’re Looking For: Honey should stay firm and sticky, holding its position rather than running or spreading quickly.

2. The Water Test

Another handy test is the water test. Fill a glass with water and add a spoonful of honey to it. If your honey is pure, it should settle at the bottom of the glass in a thick, cohesive lump. Fake honey tends to dissolve more quickly due to added sweeteners and water.

• What You’re Looking For: Pure honey should not dissolve easily in water. Instead, it should clump together and sink straight to the bottom.

3. The Crystallization Test

Many people think that crystallized honey is a sign of poor quality, but the opposite is true! Raw and pure honey tends to crystallize over time, forming a grainy texture. If your honey stays liquid and smooth over many months, it may be processed or mixed with additives to maintain its consistency.

• What You’re Looking For: Over time, honey should develop natural crystals, a hallmark of raw, pure honey.

Why You Should Care About Honey Purity

Buying pure, raw honey means you’re getting the full spectrum of honey’s natural benefits, including antioxidants, vitamins, and antibacterial properties. Studies have shown that pure honey can help with everything from sore throats to wound healing and digestive health. However, fake or processed honey loses much of this goodness due to added ingredients or excessive heating.

Where to Find Real Honey

The easiest way to ensure you’re buying authentic, raw honey is to purchase from trusted sources. Look for local beekeepers or brands that specialize in raw, unprocessed honey. Many commercial brands prioritize consistency and profit over quality, leading to mass-produced honey that lacks the nutrients and benefits of the real thing.

If you want to enjoy honey the way nature intended, make sure you’re getting the real deal. Trustworthy stores like ours prioritize high-quality, raw honey so you can be confident in every drop you buy.

Looking for pure honey? Check out our Shop for all-natural, raw honey products straight from the hive!