Place a small amount of honey in a glass of water. Pure honey should settle at the bottom without dissolving. Adulterated honey may dissolve or form bubbles.
Take a small amount of honey on your thumb and check if it sticks or spreads. Pure honey is sticky and should remain on your thumb, while impure honey may easily spread.
Put a drop of honey on a piece of paper. Pure honey will not be absorbed and should not leave wet or sticky marks. Adulterated honey may be absorbed or leave marks.
Real honey tends to crystallize over time. If your honey has not crystallized after a long period, it might indicate adulteration with sugar syrup or other substances.
Dip the tip of a matchstick into honey and then strike it against the matchbox. Pure honey should light the match easily due to its flammable properties. Impurities might hinder the combustion process.
Mix a few drops of honey with vinegar. If the mixture foams, it indicates the presence of chalk or gypsum, common adulterants in honey.
Heat a small amount of honey in a microwave or on a stove. Pure honey caramelizes, while adulterated honey may foam or produce a burnt smell.
Place a drop of honey in front of ants. Pure honey will attract ants, while impure honey might repel them.