When it comes to honey, not all are created equal. Raw honey and processed honey may seem similar at first glance, but there are key differences that set them apart. Let’s explore the distinctions between these two types of honey.
Raw Honey:
Raw honey is the unprocessed, natural product that bees produce from flower nectar. It’s extracted from the hive and undergoes minimal filtration, preserving its original composition. Raw honey varies greatly in its appearance depending on the flowers the bees feed from. For example wildflower honey is a clear runny honey, while ivy or clover honey would set more like a paste and be an opaque cream colour. It is very common for raw honey to also contain tiny bits of pollen, propolis, and beeswax. Due to its minimal processing, raw honey retains more of its natural flavour, aroma, and beneficial enzymes.
Processed Honey:
Processed honey, on the other hand, undergoes filtration and pasteurization to remove impurities such as wax, pollen, and air bubbles. This extensive processing gives it a smoother texture and a more uniform appearance. However, it also destroys the honey’s natural enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants in the process. As well as this many cheaper honey may contain bulking agents that are added in, as honey is the third most faked food in the world. Many commercial brands of honey fall into the processed category.
Nutritional Differences:
Raw honey is often favoured for its potential health benefits. It contains enzymes that aid digestion and antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage. Additionally consuming raw honey produced in your local area can help alleviate seasonal allergies by exposing you to small amounts of local pollen.
Processed honey loses the beneficial components in the pasteurization process. It’s still a natural sweetener, but it lacks the same nutritional value as raw honey.
The Verdict:
If you’re looking for honey with potential health benefits and a diverse flavour range, raw honey is the way to go. With its variety of flavours, how it naturally never goes off, and the benefits you get from the natural enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants, raw honey is the obvious winner. If you’d like to get your own raw honey just 👉head over👈 here and explore the world of this versatile natural sweetener. 🐝
