Hello Kurma,
I have heard that honey should never be cooked because it becomes toxic. I am specifically talking about baking. Is this correct?

L.H. , Mount Lawley, Western Australia

Dear L,
This is correct, yes, according to India's classical medical science, Ayurveda. You should avoid cooking with honey in any way, as it becomes toxic when heated. Honey must never be heated above 40 degrees Celcius.

It is better to use sugar for baking instead. My favourite is raw sugar. Honey can always be drizzled on cold afterwards.

Also, if making hot drinks like a hot herbal tea with honey, always cool your drink to body temperature before adding the honey. If you want to drink it 'piping hot', use sugar.

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