Different types of Honey
There are lots of different types of honey and differences in quality. The best quality is honey labelled as raw, organic, and unfiltered.
The price is determined by various factors. The most important factor is quality! The better the quality, the more expensive it will be. There are several reasons for this:
Good honey is harder to come by. It takes time and effort to collect the golden liquid from the beehives. Beekeepers have to collect and extract it from the combs and filter out impurities. This is a slow and labor-intensive process, which drives up the cost.
Another reason for the high price is that it is made with no chemicals or additives so it is a pure product. Ultimately, the price depends on quality, availability, and medicinal properties (Manuka and Melipona). A good product is more difficult to produce and costs more to buy, while cheap supermarket varieties are often made with chemicals and additives. Cheap brands are often bulked out with sugar syrup, especially those imported from China and other nations.
Color 
Different types of honey can vary in color from almost clear to dark amber. The color is determined by the type of flowers that the bees visit. For example, honey from clover or alfalfa will be lighter in color, while that made from buckwheat flowers will be darker. Honey can become dark and cloudy due to a number of reasons. One reason is that it has been exposed to air and has begun to oxidize. This process will make the honey darker in color and can also make it taste more bitter. Another reason it can become dark and cloudy is if it has been stored at a high temperature. This can cause the sugar to crystallize, which will make it look cloudy. Another possible explanation is that bacteria or other microorganisms invade the honey and cause it to spoil.
Flavor
The flavor also depends on the type of flowers from which the bees collect the nectar. Some common flavors include clover, lavender, orange blossom, and thyme. The variety of different flavors range from a floral, fruity, nutty, or spiced taste.
Texture
The texture of honey depends on two things:
A) The time of the harvest. Honey harvested in the spring or early summer has a smooth texture and a light color. Harvests from late summer or fall has a thicker texture and a darker color.
B) How much water it contains. Honey with a high water content will be runny, while those with a lower water content will be thick and creamy.
The crystallization of honey is a natural process that can be affected by a variety of factors, such as temperature and humidity. In general, the higher the sugar content, the more quickly it will crystallize. Honey that has been heated or adulterated with corn syrup or other additives will often crystallize more quickly than a pure one. Crystallization is not harmful. Many people believe crystallization is a sign of better quality, but that is a personal preference.
Traditionally used in baking and as a natural sweetener, honey also has many medicinal properties and is commonly used as a cough syrup or wound dressing. Some types are said to have special healing powers, like manuka honey from New Zealand, and melipona made from stingless bees, which are thought to have antibacterial properties.
Raw vs pure vs organic Honey
When you want to buy honey it is important to understand the different labeling terms. How do you choose a good quality honey?
Raw Honey
is unpasteurized honey, which means the enzymes and other nutrients have not been killed. It contains all of the natural enzymes and nutrients of the honeycomb.
Pure Honey
is filtered to remove all impurities, but the pollen and other particles have not been removed, and it has not been pasteurized. It is also high in antioxidants and nutrients, but has a milder flavor than RAW honey.
Organic Honey
is made from organic beeswax and honey, meaning the hives are kept free of pesticides and other chemicals.
Unfiltered Honey
is raw honey that has been left in its natural state, with the pollen and other particles intact.
How do you know which type of honey is right for you?
It depends on what you are looking for. Of all the different types, raw honey is the most natural option and has the most antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It also has a more intense flavor than other types. Pure honey is also high in antioxidants and nutrients, but has a milder flavor than its raw counterpart. Organic honey is regulated and must meet certain standards, so you can be sure that it’s ethically produced. Unfiltered honey is less processed than other types, and therefore may have more health benefits. However, it also has a stronger flavor and can be gritty or foamy.
Is it Vegan?
A question that is frequently asked and the answer is ´No´! It is an animal product. However, some vegans may choose to consume it because they believe that bees are not harmed in the process.
Does Honey Spoil?
It does not spoil, but it can darken and crystalize over time. Archeologists have found honey that was over 3000 years old that was still edible! Honey will last indefinitely if it is stored in an airtight container and kept in a cool, dark place. If it has been heated or exposed to sunlight, it will often crystallize more quickly than honey that has been stored in a dark place.
Can Honey grow mouldy?
Yes, it can be a breeding ground for bacteria and mould. If stored in a cool, dry place, it should be fine, but if it is left in a container with moisture for an extended period of time, it will start to grow mould. This mould is not harmful to eat, but it does not taste very good and it can be a little bit dangerous to breathe in.
Is Honey safe for dogs?
Dogs can eat small amounts as it contains enzymes that can help with digestion, and is also a natural source of energy. It´s antimicrobial properties can help fight infection and can be used to soothe a dog’s throat.
Is Honey safe for babies?
It should not be consumed by infants under one year old, as it can contain bacteria that can cause infant botulism. The immune system of children over 12 months is strong enough to fight off any bacteria that might be present in the honey. It can help to soothe children’s throats and calm a cough.
How much should I eat per day?
The American Heart Association recommends that women and children consume no more than six teaspoons (24 grams) of sugar per day, men no more than 9 teaspoons (26 grams). One teaspoon contains almost six grams of sugar.
The benefits of Honey
The golden miracle syrup has been used medicinally for centuries. All different types of honey are thought to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and is known to speed up the healing process of wounds and burns. Fresh honey is often given to people that feel weak as it is easily digestible but it is also used to treat bronchial asthma, constipation, dizziness, eczema, eye diseases, fatigue, healing of wounds, hepatitis, throat infections, tuberculosis, and ulcers. It is also thought to promote sperm count and fertility, and improve mental health.
Older honey is known to treat diarrhea, diabetes mellitus, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, and vomiting, as well as preserving meat and fruits. It is popular in cosmetic applications, like facial washes, skin moisturizers, hair conditioners and in treatment of spots.
A study published in the journal Burns found that honey was more effective at healing wounds than conventional treatments. It is proven effective in treating other skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
It is also a natural cough suppressant. A study conducted by the University of Maryland Medical Center found that it was just as effective as over-the-counter cough syrup in treating coughs. Because it is composed of simple sugars and a natural source of energy, the body can easily convert into ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
It is not only tasty, it also has powerful antioxidant properties. A study published in the Journal of Apicultural Research showed that it contains a variety of antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.
Composition
Honey contains fructose, glucose, water, minerals, vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids. The ratio of these sugars varies depending on the type of flowers from which the nectar is collected. For example, if its made from clover it has a higher ratio of fructose to glucose, and if its made of buckwheat has a higher ratio of glucose to fructose.
Warning!
People with an allergy to bees should not consume honey or other bee products as this could trigger a serious reaction. Additionally, honey should not be consumed by infants under one year old, as it can contain bacteria that can cause infant botulism.