What two foods never expire?
Short answer: Honey and salt (table salt) effectively never expire when stored properly. Honey’s chemistry prevents microbial growth; salt is a mineral that does not support spoilage.
Explanation
Honey has very low water activity, high sugar concentration and low pH, which together inhibit bacteria and mold; it may crystallize or darken over time but remains safe to eat if uncontaminated. Salt is an inorganic mineral (sodium chloride) that does not decompose or support microbial life; additives like iodine or anticaking agents can change in quality, but the salt itself remains stable. Both can become less usable if contaminated with moisture, foreign organic matter, or excessive heat, so proper storage matters. Note: do not give honey to infants under one year due to risk of botulism spores.
Tips
- Store honey in a clean, dry, airtight container at room temperature; warm gently to re-liquefy if it crystallizes.
- Keep salt dry in a sealed container to prevent clumping and contamination.
- Avoid introducing crumbs, liquids, or dirty utensils into either container.
- Check for fermentation or off-odors in honey (sign of contamination); discard if present.
- Understand that additives (iodized salt) may lose potency but the salt remains safe to consume.
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