The Sweet Truth: How to Spot Natural Honey and Why It Matters

The Sweet Truth: How to Spot Natural Honey and Why It Matters

Honey is one of nature’s most remarkable gifts—a golden, nutrient-packed delight that’s as beneficial for our health as it is delicious. However, not all honey is created equal. The rise of farmed and processed honey has raised concerns about environmental impact, bee welfare, and even health benefits.

In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between farmed and natural honey, why natural honey is better for you, and how to identify authentic honey.  Let’s dive into how to tell the difference, why natural honey is better for you, and the environmental issues surrounding honey production.

From farmed honey to natural honey, understanding the differences can be as tricky as distinguishing between a synthetic honey fragrance and the real thing.

What’s the Difference Between Farmed and Natural Honey?

Farmed honey often comes from large-scale industrial operations where bees are kept in controlled environments. The honey is frequently pasteurized and processed, which can strip it of beneficial enzymes and nutrients. Additives like corn syrup or sugar water are sometimes introduced to bulk up production, compromising the honey’s purity.

Natural honey, on the other hand, is produced by bees in more organic and sustainable conditions. It’s raw, unfiltered, and retains its rich array of enzymes, antioxidants, and antibacterial properties. This type of honey supports biodiversity and is a more ethical choice.

• Texture: Natural honey tends to crystallize over time, while processed honey remains liquid.
• Flavour: Natural honey often has a richer, more complex taste reflective of its floral origin.
• Labeling: Always read the label for terms like "raw" or "unfiltered" and avoid those with additives.

The Environmental Impact of Bee Farming

While bees are vital to pollination and ecosystems, large-scale bee farming can sometimes do more harm than good. Overworking bees to produce more honey disrupts their natural rhythms and weakens hives. Additionally, transporting bees to different locations for pollination can introduce diseases to wild populations, further endangering them.

Supporting local, small-scale beekeepers is a more sustainable choice. They often prioritize the health of the bees over profit and use practices that encourage biodiversity.

Bee farming, when done at an industrial scale, can harm the environment in several ways:

1. Monoculture Agriculture: Many large bee farms are tied to monoculture crops like almonds, which reduce biodiversity and disrupt ecosystems.
2. Overharvesting: Removing too much honey from hives can leave bees without sufficient food for winter, forcing them to rely on sugar water—a less nutritious substitute.
3. Pesticide Exposure: Bees from industrial farms are often exposed to harmful pesticides, which weaken colonies and contribute to the global decline of pollinators.
4. Stress on Bee Colonies: Overcrowding and transportation of hives for commercial pollination can stress bees, leading to weakened immune systems and higher mortality rates.

Why Natural Honey is Better for You

Natural honey isn’t just kinder to the environment—it’s also packed with health benefits:

• Rich in Nutrients: It contains antioxidants, enzymes, and trace minerals that processed honey often lacks.
• Antibacterial Properties: Raw honey has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it excellent for soothing sore throats and healing wounds.
• Easier on Digestion: Unfiltered honey contains beneficial enzymes that aid digestion.
• Supports Local Immunity: Consuming local honey may help reduce seasonal allergies by exposing you to trace amounts of local pollen.

Why Local Honey Is Beneficial

Local honey is believed to help with seasonal allergies, as it contains trace amounts of pollen from local plants. Consuming small amounts of this pollen can help your body build resistance over time. Moreover, buying local honey supports nearby beekeepers, reducing the carbon footprint associated with shipping and packaging.

Manuka Honey: The Gold Standard

Manuka honey, sourced from the nectar of the Manuka tree in New Zealand, is renowned for its powerful antibacterial properties. It’s graded by its Unique Manuka Factor (UMF), which measures the concentration of beneficial compounds. High-grade Manuka honey is often used for wound care, digestive health, and boosting immunity. 

Not All Honey Products Contain Honey

Honey’s popularity extends beyond the jar to products like soaps, candles, and beeswax wraps. However, not all of these products include actual honey. For example, our honey soap at Soapyard uses high-quality ingredients like shea butter and glycerin alongside honey-inspired fragrances such as coumarin, eugenol, and hydroxycitronellal. While these components evoke the scent of honey, they don’t contain honey itself.

This means our soap is suitable for vegans, offering a honey-like experience without animal-derived ingredients. If you’re specifically seeking products with real honey, check the label for terms like honey extract or similar derivatives.

How to Identify Natural Honey

Spotting authentic honey can be tricky, but here are some tips:

• Check the Label: Look for terms like “raw,” “unfiltered,” or “organic.” Avoid labels with added sugars or syrups.
• Conduct a Water Test: Drop a spoonful of honey into water. Pure honey will sink to the bottom, while processed honey will dissolve.
• Crystallization: Natural honey tends to crystallize over time, whereas processed honey remains liquid.
• Taste and Aroma: Pure honey often has a complex, floral taste and a distinctive aroma.

Honey Alternatives for Everyday Use

Honey isn’t just for eating—it’s a versatile ingredient in many products. Here are some honey-inspired items to try:

• Honey Soap: A luxurious choice for skincare, just ensure the product contains honey if you’re looking for its specific benefits. Check out our honey soap, which pairs a honey-like scent with skin-friendly natural ingredients.
• Honey Candles: These often use beeswax and create a warm, natural ambiance, but verify that they’re free of synthetic additives.
• Beeswax Wraps: An eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap, perfect for reducing waste.

Tips for Keeping It Natural

To ensure you’re supporting sustainable and healthy practices:

• Look for local, small-batch honey.
• Avoid honey that lists additives or isn’t labeled as "raw" or "unfiltered."
• Choose products with clear ingredient labels, especially when buying honey-inspired goods.

Honey is one of nature’s sweetest gifts, but navigating its many forms can be tricky. By understanding the differences between farmed and natural honey and being mindful of its environmental impact, you can make informed, sustainable choices. Whether you’re enjoying honey in your tea or using a honey-inspired soap, every small step helps protect bees and our planet.

Final Thoughts

The next time you’re shopping for honey, consider the impact your choice makes. Opt for raw, unfiltered honey that’s produced sustainably, and savor the natural goodness it offers. Not only will you enjoy a better-tasting product, but you’ll also play a role in protecting the environment and supporting the hardworking bees that make it all possible.