How Long Does Mānuka Honey Last? (Hint: It Only Gets Better)

Short answer: When stored correctly, mānuka honey can last indefinitely. While most jars have a “best before” date (usually 3–5 years from packaging), properly stored mānuka honey doesn’t spoil - and may even become more potent over time.

Let’s unpack why this golden superfood is so shelf-stable, how its potency changes, and how to make sure you’re getting the most from your jar.

What Makes Mānuka Honey Last So Long?

Honey, by nature, is antimicrobial and low in water—conditions that microbes can’t survive in. But mānuka honey stands apart thanks to its concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound responsible for its powerful antibacterial properties.

Here’s why mānuka honey lasts so long:

Low water activity: Prevents spoilage and microbial growth.
High sugar content: Dehydrates bacteria, keeping them inactive.
Acidic pH: Creates a harsh environment for spoilage organisms.
MGO content: Boosts stability and extends its shelf life.

In short: mānuka honey is a natural preservative with built-in staying power.

Does Mānuka Honey Expire?

No, it doesn’t. Mānuka honey doesn’t go “off” or become unsafe to eat. Instead, over time it might:

Crystallize.
Darken slightly in colour.
Thicken or become grainier in texture.

None of these changes affect the safety or core benefits of the honey. And here’s the fascinating part - its MGO strength may actually increase with age.

Does MGO Increase Over Time?

Yes, it can. MGO in mānuka honey forms naturally over time from a compound called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is present in the nectar of the mānuka flower. After harvesting, DHA continues converting into MGO as the honey matures.

That means a jar labeled as MGO 350+ at bottling might measure significantly higher a year or two later, especially if stored properly.

However, this isn’t infinite. At a certain point (usually several years in), the MGO levels will plateau or slowly decline as the honey ages further.

👉 Fun fact: This is one reason some producers test and re-grade mānuka honey after packaging - it evolves!

How to Store Mānuka Honey for Maximum Shelf Life

To preserve both quality and potency, here’s how to store your mānuka honey:

✅ Store in a cool, dry place

Keep it at room temperature—ideally 10–20°C. Avoid heat sources and direct sunlight.

✅ Keep the lid sealed tight

Exposure to moisture or air can introduce contaminants or encourage fermentation.

✅ Use clean, dry utensils

Avoid double-dipping or using a wet spoon—no one wants microbes in their mānuka.

❌ Do not refrigerate

Cold temps speed up crystallization. Mānuka doesn’t need chilling to stay fresh.

❌ Avoid heat above 40°C

Heating can degrade beneficial enzymes and reduce MGO content.

What Happens to Mānuka Honey As It Ages?

Crystallization

This is a natural process caused by glucose molecules solidifying. It doesn’t affect quality. To re-liquify, gently warm the jar in a bowl of warm (not hot) water.

Darkening

Mānuka tends to darken over time - especially if exposed to light. This is normal and doesn’t mean it’s gone bad.

Thickening

Older mānuka honey may become denser or grainier in texture. That’s just part of its natural evolution.

Increase in MGO

As mentioned earlier, your mānuka honey may test higher in MGO a year or two after purchase.

Is Higher MGO More Shelf-Stable?

Absolutely. MGO is not just a potency marker—it also plays a role in stability.

MGO 350+: Great for daily wellness and general support.
MGO 550+: Stronger antibacterial activity and more resistant to time.
MGO 850+: Highly potent and ideal for long-term storage or targeted use.

The higher the MGO, the better the honey holds up over time, both in strength and stability.

🙋Frequently Asked Questions

Can mānuka honey go bad?

No. Mānuka honey doesn’t spoil when stored properly. It may change texture or colour, but it remains safe and effective.

How long does mānuka honey last after opening?

An opened jar, if stored well, lasts just as long as an unopened one—several years or more.

Why does my mānuka honey look crystallized?

Crystallization is natural. To soften it, place the jar in a bowl of warm water and stir gently.

Does the 'best before' date mean it’s expired?

Nope. “Best before” is about peak flavor and texture—not safety. Your mānuka is still good well beyond that date.

Can I store mānuka honey in the fridge?

It’s not necessary and actually not recommended. Fridge temps can cause rapid crystallization.

Does MGO content increase over time?

Yes - MGO can rise as DHA in the honey naturally converts over time. This makes well-stored mānuka even more potent with age.

Final Thoughts

Mānuka honey is nature’s original shelf-stable superfood. Not only does it last for years - it gets better with time. Thanks to its unique chemistry and naturally occurring MGO, a jar stored in your pantry today may be even more powerful a year from now.

So whether you’re using it for daily immunity, skin support, or just a spoonful of something extraordinary, rest assured: your mānuka honey is in it for the long haul.