Honey Buying Guide – Important Facts to Know

Honey is a timeless and versatile natural sweetener that offers a myriad of flavors and benefits.

With so many options available, choosing the right honey can be a daunting task.

To help you make informed choices and embark on a delightful honey-tasting journey, we have compiled the ultimate honey-buying guide.

So, whether you’re a honey connoisseur or a novice looking to explore the world of honey, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to select the perfect honey for your palate and preferences.

Types of Honey

Honey comes in a wide range of varieties, each with its unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Here are some popular types of honey you may encounter:

1. Wildflower Honey: Wildflower honey is sourced from nectar collected by bees from various wildflowers. It offers a diverse and complex flavor profile, ranging from floral and fruity to earthy and robust.
2. Clover Honey: Clover honey is made from the nectar of clover blossoms. It is known for its mild, delicate, and slightly floral taste, making it a popular choice for everyday use.
3. Manuka Honey: UMF Manuka honey is a unique variety from New Zealand, known for its rich flavor and medicinal properties. It is derived from the nectar of the manuka tree and is highly sought after for its potential health benefits.
4. Acacia Honey: Acacia honey is prized for its light, golden color, and delicate, floral taste. It has a mild sweetness and a clean, subtle flavor that pairs well with various foods and beverages.
5. Buckwheat Honey: Buckwheat honey has a distinctively dark color and robust flavor. It is known for its strong molasses and malty undertones, making it a popular choice for baking and adding depth to dishes.

Considerations for Buying Honey

When choosing honey, there are a few key factors to consider:

1. Flavor: Honey can range from mild and floral to robust and bold. Consider your taste preferences and the intended use of the honey. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite.
2. Origin: Pay attention to the honey’s origin. Some regions are renowned for specific types of honey, known for their unique flavors and characteristics. Explore different origins to experience the diverse terroir of honey.
3. Purity and Quality: Look for honey that is pure and of high quality. Opt for raw or unfiltered honey, as these varieties retain more of the natural enzymes, antioxidants, and beneficial compounds. Check for reputable certifications or labels that indicate quality standards.
4. Sustainability and Ethics: Consider supporting honey producers who prioritize sustainable and ethical practices. Look for honey that is sourced from responsible beekeepers who prioritize the well-being of bees and their habitats.

Reading Honey Labels

When examining honey labels, keep an eye out for the following information:

1. Ingredients: Honey should have a single ingredient: honey. Avoid products that contain additives, sweeteners, or artificial substances.
2. Country or Region of Origin: The label should indicate where the honey was produced. This information can give you insights into the honey’s flavor profile and quality. At TIAKI Honey we provide a honey traceability function as well as the harvest date from the batch number on your honey jar.
3. Certifications: Look for certifications or labels that indicate organic, raw, or other quality standards. iatinExamples include UMF Honey Association of New Zealand, Non-GMO Project Verified, or local organic certifications.
4. Harvest Date: Some honey jars provide the harvest date, indicating the freshness of the honey. Fresher honey is likely to have a more vibrant flavor and higher nutrient content.

Where to Buy Honey

Honey can be found in various locations, including:

1. Local Farmers’ Markets: Farmers’ markets offer a great opportunity to connect directly with beekeepers and sample a wide range of local honey.
2. Specialty Stores: Specialty stores dedicated to honey and other natural products often have a diverse selection of honey from different regions and floral sources.
3. Online Retailers: Many online retailers like TIAKI Honey specialize in offering a wide variety of honey, allowing you to explore different options and have them conveniently delivered to your doorstep.

Storage and Shelf Life

To ensure the quality and longevity of your honey, follow these storage tips:

1. Temperature: Store honey at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
2. Sealing: Keep honey tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and maintain its freshness.
3. Crystallization: It is natural for honey to crystallize over time. If your honey crystallizes, simply place the jar in warm water until it returns to its liquid state.

Choosing the right honey involves considering factors such as flavor, origin, purity, and sustainability. By exploring different types of honey, reading labels, and supporting responsible beekeepers, you can embark on a delightful honey-tasting journey.

Whether you prefer the floral notes of wildflower honey, the unique qualities of Manuka honey, or the robust flavor of buckwheat honey, each variety offers a distinct experience. So, dive into the world of honey, savor its natural sweetness, and enjoy the rich tapestry of flavors that this golden elixir has to offer.

Get the inside scoop on the best TIAKI honey deals. Browse our range of certified UMF™ Manuka Honey!