If you’ve ever been told to avoid using a metal spoon when scooping honey because it supposedly kills the active enzymes making it less healthy, you’re not alone! This belief has circulated for years, leading many to opt for wooden or plastic honey drizzlers instead. But is there any truth to the claim? Let’s separate fact from fiction.
The Origins of the Myth
The myth likely stems from the fact that honey is naturally acidic, with a pH ranging from 3.2 to 4.5. Certain metals, especially reactive ones like iron or copper, can corrode over time when exposed to acidic substances, potentially affecting the taste and purity of the honey. However, this does not mean that simply dipping a stainless steel spoon into honey will damage its beneficial properties.
The Science Behind It
Honey contains various beneficial enzymes, such as diastase, invertase, and glucose oxidase. These enzymes help break down sugars and contribute to honey’s antibacterial properties. However, they are only affected by extreme heat (above 40°C) or prolonged exposure to moisture—not brief contact with metal.
Stainless steel, which is commonly used in kitchen utensils, is non-reactive and does not chemically alter honey’s composition. The idea that a quick dip with a metal spoon destroys enzymes is simply unfounded.
What Actually Affects Honey’s Enzymes?
If you want to preserve the beneficial enzymes in honey, here are the real factors to watch out for:
- Heat: Heating honey above 40°C can break down its enzymes, reducing its health benefits.
- Moisture: Honey is naturally low in water content, which helps prevent bacterial growth. Introducing moisture (e.g., leaving the lid off in a humid environment) can lead to fermentation.
- Prolonged Metal Contact: While a brief touch with a metal spoon won’t harm honey, storing it in a reactive metal container (such as copper or iron) for long periods could affect its quality.
The Verdict: Metal Spoons Are Safe
When commercial honey operations store and transport honey, they do so in large metal drums!
Using a metal spoon is completely safe and will not harm its natural enzymes or properties. If you prefer the aesthetic and traditional feel of a wooden honey drizzler, go for it—but don’t worry about using a standard stainless steel spoon when enjoying your honey.
Go Crazy With the Spoons!
Honey is a resilient, antibacterial natural sweetener, and while it’s important to store it properly, there’s no need to worry about using metal utensils. Next time someone warns you about metal spoons “killing” honey’s enzymes, you’ll have the facts to set the record straight!