Frequently asked questions

Honey crystallization is a natural process where some of the sugars separate and form crystals over time. All honey will eventually crystallize, and it is still perfectly safe to consume. Honey is best stored in an air-tight container at room temperature (65 to 75 degrees F). Colder temps or refrigeration can accelerate the crystallization process.

The easiest and simplest answer is just to use crystallized honey as-is, since it is still good and safe to use. If you are using honey for cooking, baking, or sweetening a warm beverage, the honey will melt in (similar to granulated sugar). However, if you prefer for your honey to be smooth, it can be gently heated to melt the sugar crystals that have separated. The best method is to put your honey in a heat-safe container (ideally a glass jar, NOT plastic) and then place the jar in a water bath. Gently heat and stir occasionally, making sure water does not get into the honey (you may want to place a lid loosely on top the jar). This may take some time, but warming the honey slowly at a lower temperature helps maintain the quality, as high heat can destroy some of its natural properties. Microwaving is not recommended.

For honey, we feel the best way to think of whether it's local or not, is to consider the plants near the beehives and if they are the same (or similar) to plants in your area. This can't always be defined by a specific distance, as some areas are more diverse than others. A general guideline would be within 20-50 miles. For some, buying honey local to them, is in hopes of allergy relief. We maintain that each person is different, so some have found help/relief from allergies with honey, and others haven't. Whether it is helpful or not, it still tastes good! One of the best reasons for buying local honey, however, is to support your local beekeeper! You're supporting a small business that supports pollination in your area. Here at Stillwater Apiaries, we manage hives in Pike and Lincoln county, Missouri.

Honey is mainly made from nectar, so as different plants bloom throughout the growing season, the color and taste of the honey is directly affected by what nectars are being gathered. At Stillwater Apiaries, we generally harvest three different times per year. This highlights the differences throughout the spring, summer and early fall (in our area). Some beekeepers only harvest once per year, creating a blend of honey from the whole season, which would have more of a uniform color.