How long do Manuka honey benefits last after opening?
Written by
Thomas Wilson
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.Manuka honey retains therapeutic potency for approximately six months after it's been opened, provided it's stored correctly. The unique active constituents, MGO and leptosperin, remain potent at 70°F (21°C) in a sealed container. Storing properly preserves antibacterial activity and health benefits, ensuring you get the most value possible.
Storage Temperature
- Ideal range: 50-70°F (10-21°C)
- Above 77°F (25°C) accelerates degradation
- Refrigeration optional but not required
Container Integrity
- Airtight seals prevent moisture absorption
- Dark glass blocks light damage
- Food-grade plastic acceptable for short-term
Handling Practices
- Use clean dry utensils only
- Avoid double-dipping to prevent contamination
- Minimize air exposure during use
Use optimal storage tactics to extend shelf life. Store jars in your pantry, away from ovens and sunlight. Always tightly seal lids after each use. Wipe the rims before closing to avoid crystallization sites. These practices will help retain potency for up to the recommended six months.
Identify degradation indications that indicate lost benefits. Discard honey with bubbles of fermentation, an alcoholic smell, or mold. If it has crystallized much more than its expected sandy texture, it has been contaminated by moisture. If the color has darkened and there are separated layers, compound breakdowns have occurred.
Check the potency markers using your senses. Real Manuka has a thick texture and a distinct herbal scent. To test for antibacterial potency, apply it to your cuts; if it slows healing more than normal, the benefits are gone. MGO test strips provide lab-verified results.
Expand useful life by taking proactive measures! You can also limit air exposure by breaking large containers into separate, smaller portions. Portion the honey into airtight bags to freeze it and enjoy a supply all year long while thawing only as much as needed. DO NOT microwave frozen honey. If required, thaw slowly in a refrigerator.
Be aware of expiration factors beyond just the opening dates. When checking production dates, choose the freshest batches. Potency naturally diminishes over time, regardless of whether the product is stored properly or not. Discard honey if it is nearing the three-year mark, even if it is still sealed, because the DHA conversion process will continue to occur, and the MGO potency will be reduced.
When using old honey, quality verification is a priority. The first test is viscosity: honey should coat the spoons so thickly it will not drip off. Next, you want to validate that it has crystalline profile: small grains not large crystals. These two checks will help confirm you received the therapeutic dose throughout the shelf life.
Read the full article: 10 Proven Benefits of Manuka Honey
