Many fans of beekeeping products are interested in how to properly store honey in honeycombs. For this process to be successful, it is important to adhere to many rules and recommendations. First of all, you should choose the right storage container. Maintaining optimal temperature and humidity parameters is also of great importance. In addition, it is necessary to ensure that dangerous pests do not infest the honeycombs.
Shelf life
The shelf life of honey is directly affected by its storage conditions.If the honeycombs have not been damaged by negative factors or parasites, they can be consumed after 10 years. However, experts note that over time the product still loses its healing properties.
If in the first year after collection, the content of valuable components is 100%, then already in the third year their quantity decreases to 60%. Moreover, the antibacterial properties of the product disappear first. That’s why experts advise making enough supplies to last exactly one season.
Rules for storing honey in honeycombs
In order for the honey in the comb to retain the maximum amount of valuable components, it needs to be provided with the right conditions.
Temperature
When storing honeycombs at home, it is important to monitor temperature indicators. Optimal values can be considered +4-11 degrees. Experts advise avoiding sudden temperature fluctuations, as this adversely affects the quality of the product and significantly reduces its shelf life.
Moisture
The main reason for the appearance of mold when storing honeycombs in an apartment is considered to be high humidity combined with heat. If this figure is more than 65%, fungi rapidly spread over the surface of the honeycomb and quickly penetrate its structure.
It is important to consider that many types of mold can trigger allergy symptoms. In addition, high humidity provokes the onset of fermentation processes, which negatively affects the healing qualities of the product.
sunlight
Under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, many substances in nectar are destroyed or change their structure. As a result, its beneficial properties are significantly reduced. To preserve maximum healing properties, it is important to keep the honeycomb in a dark place.
Insects
Bee frames are often damaged by dangerous insects.The greatest threat to this product is the wax moth. Her body dimensions are 13-30 millimeters. It is distinguished by its grey-brown color. Both adults and caterpillars consume nectar. At the same time, the wax moth is characterized by rapid reproduction.
Storage containers
To consume a quality product, it is important to choose the right container for storing it. The best option would be clay or glass containers that are hermetically sealed. This is very important because honeycombs can absorb foreign odors.
It is important to consider that metal utensils are not suitable for storing the mass. Under the influence of sweet nectar, the mass oxidizes and releases harmful substances. When choosing glass containers, it is better to give preference to dark containers. Enameled cookware is also a good option.
Since ancient times, people have kept the product in wooden containers. However, it is important to take into account that coniferous wood is not suitable. Food grade plastic containers are also permitted. However, over time, honey can suffocate in such a container. Therefore, it can be considered a temporary option.
Where to store?
In order for the product to retain maximum benefits, it is important to choose the right place for it. In this case, several options are possible.
Fridge
To preserve the honey in the combs, it can be placed in the refrigerator.It is recommended to maintain the temperature at +5 degrees and get rid of excess moisture. The product must be in an airtight container, as it absorbs fumes well. It is important to ensure that there are no fruits or cereals near the bee nectar. Salty foods are also considered bad neighbors.
Basement, cellar
People who live in private houses often store honeycombs in the cellar. It should be borne in mind that most of these rooms are not suitable for storing the product. This is why it is so important to monitor temperature and humidity.
If the cellar is suitable for storing honeycombs, it is best to keep the composition in wooden containers that are impregnated with wax. At the same time, there should be no dishes with sauerkraut, salt, sugar or cereals nearby.
Wardrobe, storage room
Honeycombs can be kept in such places in winter. To do this, just place the container with them in a dark place. It is important to remember that there should be no other products nearby. You should also make sure there are no insects in your pantry or closet.
What can spoil cellular honey?
Cell honey is considered to be quite demanding in terms of storage conditions. There are many external factors that can spoil the product. These include the following:
- Mold - affects bee nectar at high air humidity. In such a situation, the honey will have to be thrown away.
- Insects - wax moths can ruin bee frames in just 1 week. To avoid such problems, it is important to regularly ventilate the contents of containers. Maintaining the correct temperature in the room is of no small importance. It should not exceed +10 degrees. In such conditions, parasites cannot develop and die.
- Sun rays - they lead to the destruction of the healing properties of the product. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the honeycombs in a dark place.
- High humidity - in this case, fermentation and souring of the beekeeping product begins. To normalize humidity parameters, it is important to ensure adequate ventilation in the place where the mass is stored.
How to extend the shelf life?
To ensure that honeycombs with honey are stored properly, you should follow the basic recommendations of experienced beekeepers:
- Small portions can be kept indoors. However, this is allowed to be done for no more than six months. It is important to maintain optimal parameters of humidity, temperature and light.
- In a private home, you can keep honeycombs in boxes made of natural wood. In this case, all cracks must be coated with putty.
- When buying honey in a plastic container, you need to immediately transfer it to another container.
- When choosing a wooden storage container, it is important to avoid softwood. They contain a lot of resins and essential oils that will make the product bitter.
- You should not put honeycombs in the freezer. Under the influence of low temperatures, the wax will burst and the nectar will flow out.
Honey in combs is a unique product that brings great health benefits. This is due to the high content of valuable components. In order for this delicacy to retain its properties for as long as possible, it needs to be provided with optimal storage conditions. It is important to monitor humidity and temperature. It is also necessary to choose the right storage container.
