No, honey itself doesn't spoil or go bad like other foods. However, prolonged exposure to sunlight and heat can negatively affect its quality and flavor.
How Sunlight Affects Honey
While honey's naturally low water content and high acidity inhibit microbial growth, sunlight and heat can accelerate changes that impact its taste and texture.
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Crystallization: Exposure to fluctuating temperatures can cause honey to crystallize. While this doesn't mean the honey has gone bad, it changes its texture, making it thicker and more difficult to pour. This is a physical change, not a spoilage process.
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Fermentation: If the honey's initial moisture content was above 18.5%, sunlight and heat could speed up fermentation, turning it into alcohol. This is a chemical change.
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Flavor Degradation: Extended exposure to sunlight can also cause the honey to lose some of its delicate flavor notes and aroma compounds, resulting in a less pleasant taste.
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Expiration Date: Expiration dates on honey jars usually relate to inventory management and not actual spoilage.
Several sources confirm that while honey is exceptionally stable, proper storage is still advisable to maintain its quality. Avoiding direct sunlight and extreme temperatures (both high and low) is recommended for optimal honey preservation. Mississippi State University Extension Service recommends storing honey away from heat-producing appliances and direct sunlight. New Zealand Honey Co.™ notes that exposure to air, sunlight, or extreme temperatures can lead to crystallization or fermentation.
