How to sterilise honey jars
Honey is a natural, delicate and highly valued product, both for its nutritional benefits and taste. But when it comes to packaging, a key question arises for both artisan beekeepers and food companies: should honey jars be sterilised? And if so, how to do it properly without affecting product quality?
In this post, we’ll explain when, how and why to sterilise your honey jars, whether you're a business or a home producer.
Why sterilise honey jars?
Even though honey has natural antimicrobial properties, a dirty or poorly sanitised jar can contaminate the product, leading to fermentation or spoilage. Proper sterilisation ensures food safety, preserves the honey’s qualities, and improves your product’s market value.
When is it necessary?
Sterilisation is recommended when:
- The jars have been stored in dusty or humid conditions.
- You are reusing or recycling containers.
- The jars have been stored for a long time.
- You are producing for commercial purposes.
How to sterilise correctly
- Pre-cleaning: wash jars and lids with hot soapy water and rinse well.
- Methods:
- Boiling water: boil jars (without lids) for 10–15 minutes, then let dry upside down. Boil lids separately.
- Oven: place dry jars in oven at 130 °C for 15 minutes. Avoid putting metal lids in the oven.
- Autoclave: for industrial use, professional sterilisation systems ensure hygiene and regulatory compliance.
Honey filling tips
- Make sure jars are fully dry before filling.
- Don’t overheat honey during packaging.
- Use airtight lids (like Twist-Off).
- Store in a cool, dry and dark place.
Best jars for honey?
At Thepackstock, we offer:
- Glass jars (round, hexagonal).
- PET containers for lightweight or travel-friendly formats.
- Customisable lids to showcase your brand.
