MISLEADING

While honey is famous for its longevity, claiming it is the only food that never spoils is inaccurate. Honey’s unique chemistry, specifically its low moisture activity, high acidity, and natural hydrogen peroxide, prevents the growth of bacteria and microorganisms 235. This allows it to remain edible for thousands of years, as evidenced by 3,000-year-old honey found in Egyptian tombs 5811. However, honey is not the only food with an indefinite shelf life; other staples like rice and sugar are also considered stable for an indefinite period if stored correctly 7. Additionally, honey's preservation is conditional. If honey is left unsealed in a humid environment, it will absorb moisture from the air and it will spoil 112. Therefore, while honey is a primary example of an immortal food, it is neither the sole example nor immune to spoilage under poor storage conditions 17.