The proven health benefits of honey

By Sandee LaMotte, CNN

Updated 1723 GMT (0123 HKT) March 9, 2018

Honey is low in water and high in sugar, so bacteria cannot grow on it. It also contains small amounts of hydrogen peroxide, inhibiting the growth of microbes.
Photos: Eight foods that (nearly) last forever
Honey is low in water and high in sugar, so bacteria cannot grow on it. It also contains small amounts of hydrogen peroxide, inhibiting the growth of microbes.
Hide Caption
1 of 8
Drying legumes increases their sugar concentration and lowers their water content, making it hard for bacteria and mold to grow on them. Any enzymes that would break them down after harvest are put into suspended animation.
Photos: Eight foods that (nearly) last forever
Drying legumes increases their sugar concentration and lowers their water content, making it hard for bacteria and mold to grow on them. Any enzymes that would break them down after harvest are put into suspended animation.
Hide Caption
2 of 8