pH

A measure of acidity; honey sits between 3.5 and 4.5, which is one reason it keeps.

Chemistry

Definition

Floral honeys are typically pH 3.5 to 4.5, honeydew honeys 4.5 to 5.5, and stingless bee honeys 3.0 to 4.0. The acidity is one of four properties — with low water activity, high sugar concentration and enzyme-generated peroxide — that together make honey stable without preservatives.

See also

Other chemistry terms

Sources

Sources

  • Standard for Honey (CXS 12-1981)Codex Alimentarius Commission, FAO/WHO (1981) · Standards document Link
  • Council Directive 2001/110/EC relating to honeyCouncil of the European Union (2001) · Regulatory guidance Link

How sources are selected and weighted is set out in the sources and evidence policy.

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