Crystallization

• This occurs because honey contains more than 70% natural sugars and less than 20% water.
• The amount of natural sugars makes it unstable.
• Thus, it is natural for it to crystallize since it is an over-saturated solution of natural sugars.
• Pure honey crystallizes over time which preserves the flavor and quality.

Water Test

• Put a few drops of honey in a glass of water.
• Pure honey will settle at the bottom in form of a ball.
• Adulterated honey will dissolve in water, which can be noted visibly.

Paper Test

• Put a few drops of honey on a paper towel or a napkin.
• Pure honey will remain solid and will not get absorbed.
• Adulterated honey will get absorbed and wet the paper.

Thumb Test

• Put a few drops of honey on your thumb.
• Pure honey will not spill or drip off the finger.
• Fake honey will spill or spreads around like any other liquid.

Bread Test

• Spread honey on a slice of bread.
• Leave it for a few minutes.
• Its pure if the bread becomes crispy or crunchy on the applied slice.
• Adulterated honey makes bread soggy because of additives.

Flame Test

• Pour honey on a cotton bud or candle wick.
• Light it with a match-stick flame.
• The cotton will catch fire if the honey is pure.
• Expose it to the flame for long.

Vinegar Test

• Mix a tablespoon of honey, a bit of water and 2-3 drops of vinegar essence together.
• The honey is not pure if the mixture foams up.