In the 2026 landscape of “Better-for-You” beverages, Me & the Bees stands as a case study in Heritage Scaling. While The Honey Review traditionally focuses on the viscous output of the hive, this audit examines the mechanical utility of honey as a stabilizer in a lemonade formula rooted in a 1940s recipe.
In the search for clean hydration alternatives at The Honey Review, we often encounter beverages that sacrifice purity for shelf-stability. Me & the Bees, founded by Mikaila Ulmer, takes a different approach by utilizing a traditional family recipe updated with a desert-born superfood: the Prickly Pear.
While The Honey Review typically focuses on pure, unadulterated nectar, the industry has seen a rise in “Hybrid Syrups.” Tree Hive is the flagship of this movement, claiming that maple syrup and honey are “better together than apart.”
Install a bee-friendly buffet in your backyard with these 5 plants that attract native bees and other beneficial pollinators. You don’t need to be an expert at gardening or keeping honeybees; all you’ll need is some patience, creativity (and maybe just one friend!)
Round Rock Honey holds a nostalgic place in the archives of The Honey Review. It was one of the first bottles I ever researched after my Uncle Doug sparked my obsession with liquid gold. But in the world of raw honey reviews, nostalgia doesn’t pass a lab test.
In the world of commercial apiculture, few names carry as much weight as Kirkland Signature. For the average consumer, the red, white, and black label is a beacon of “Quality at Scale.” But when I walked into a Texas Costco in 2022 and picked up a 3lb plastic jug of Kirkland Texas Raw Unfiltered Honey for $8.99, my internal “Honey Detective” alarms went off.
As a beekeeper and honey enthusiast based in Charlotte, NC, I am always on the lookout for high-quality, natural products that support wellness. It’s even better when they’re locally sourced. The 16oz Organic Premium Elderberry Syrup – The Little Beekeeper has truly impressed me. It’s great all year long, but especially during the fall season.
Since 1952, Moon’s Honey House has been a trusted family-owned and operated business. Their exquisite collection includes local honey, meticulously crafted beeswax creations, and unique handmade gifts. It’s a delightful destination for those who appreciate quality and authenticity. Benefits of Raw Honey Products Some of the benefits of raw honey products are: They have antibacterial, antifungal, and…
Howdy, y’all, and welcome to my raw honey review blog, where I share my love and passion for all things honey. Today, I’m going to tell y’all about a very special product that I recently tried: Cloister Infused Scotch Honey. Benefits of Raw Honey Products Some of the benefits of raw honey products are: They…
Local honey in the North Carolina Piedmont is more than just a sweetener; it’s a snapshot of our specific ecosystem. While auditing supermarket brands like Great Value Organic, I often miss the raw, unfiltered complexity found at our local markets.
Blue Ridge Honey Company’s Orange Blossom Honey is a raw, unfiltered citrus‑blossom honey known for its bright floral aroma, light golden color, and naturally sweet, orange‑zest flavor. Sourced from Florida’s blooming citrus groves, this honey offers a clean, smooth taste with a refreshing citrus finish, making it one of the most popular orange blossom honeys for tea, baking, and everyday use.
About Blue Ridge Honey Company
Blue Ridge Honey Company is a respected, family‑run beekeeping operation by Bob and Suzette Binnie from Lakemont Georgia. Which is located in the mountains of North Georgia. Known for producing raw, unfiltered, minimally processed honey, the company sources its Orange Blossom Honey from Florida’s citrus groves, where bees forage on fragrant orange tree blossoms. The result is a bright, floral, citrus‑forward honey that highlights the purity and craftsmanship the brand is known for.
Appearance
This Orange Blossom Honey has a radiant light golden‑amber hue, glowing with a warm citrus tint when held to the light. Its clarity is exceptional crystal‑clear and luminous, with no visible sediment or early crystallization. The viscosity is medium‑thick, flowing slowly off the spoon in smooth ribbons that signal freshness and quality.
Note : I’ve had this Honey and used it off and on, which is why it’s now crystallized which is absolutely okay and a good sign and legitimate honey.
Aroma
The aroma opens with a lush wave of citrus blossom fragrance, reminiscent of walking through a blooming orange grove at peak season. Notes of fresh orange zest, delicate white flowers, and warm nectar rise immediately. The scent is clean, natural, and inviting—free from the artificial perfume-like notes that sometimes appear in lower‑quality orange blossom honeys.
Flavor
Blue Ridge Honey Company’s Orange Blossom Honey delivers a balanced, vibrant, and naturally sweet flavor profile:
Initial taste: A soft, silky sweetness with a gentle floral lift
Mid‑palate: Distinct citrus blossom character—bright, aromatic, and lightly fruity
Finish: A clean, refreshing aftertaste with subtle hints of orange peel and sun‑warmed citrus
The flavor is elegant rather than overpowering, making it ideal for those who enjoy a refined, smooth orange blossom honey with a natural citrus glow.
Texture
The texture is silky, smooth, and medium‑bodied, coating the palate without feeling heavy. It spreads effortlessly and dissolves cleanly, leaving no graininess or waxy residue. At the time of tasting, the honey showed zero crystallization, indicating careful handling and freshness.
Price
Price is very reasonable. You can grab a taster 2oz hexagonal jar for $3.00. Or the more regular sized 16 oz squeeze bottle for $11.50 by itself or a case of 12. A 32 oz squeeze jar for $21.50 or a case 12 for $232.20. If you need the largest amount they sell, you can pick up a gallon for $103.00.
Use Cases
This honey excels in dishes and pairings where a light citrus‑floral sweetness enhances the overall flavor:
Drizzled over yogurt, ricotta, or fresh berries
Stirred into herbal, chamomile, or green tea
Paired with mild cheeses like mascarpone or goat cheese
Used in vinaigrettes, citrus glazes, or marinades for chicken and seafood
Added to baked goods for a subtle orange‑infused sweetness
Its versatility makes it a standout choice for both everyday use and specialty recipes. Chefs love orange blossom honey because it delivers bright, aromatic citrus notes that elevate both sweet and savory dishes without overpowering them. Its delicate floral flavor adds complexity to dressings, marinades, pastries, and glazes, making it one of the most versatile honeys in a professional kitchen. The clean, smooth finish blends seamlessly into sauces and beverages, while its natural sweetness enhances ingredients rather than masking them. For chefs who value balance, nuance, and aroma, orange blossom honey is a go‑to ingredient that consistently adds depth and refinement.
Overall Impression
Blue Ridge Honey Company’s Orange Blossom Honey is a clean, fragrant, and beautifully balanced citrus blossom honey with exceptional clarity and a smooth, refreshing finish. Its gentle floral sweetness and natural orange blossom character make it an excellent option for anyone seeking a high‑quality, authentic orange blossom honey sourced from trusted beekeepers.
So, if you’re looking for a honey that’s got a little bit of Southern charm and a whole lot of flavor, you can’t go wrong with this Orange Blossom Honey from Blue Ridge Honey Company. It’s the real deal, not some commercial honey syrup. Locals can find their google maps listing HERE.
Blue Ridge Honey Company Orange Blossom Honey stands out as a bright, citrus‑forward raw honey sourced from Florida’s fragrant orange groves. Its clarity, warm golden‑amber color, and smooth, medium‑thick texture reflect careful handling and genuine purity. The aroma opens with lush citrus blossom notes—fresh orange zest, white flowers, and warm nectar—while the flavor delivers a balanced sweetness with a clean, refreshing finish touched by subtle orange peel. Versatile and naturally vibrant, this honey shines in teas, yogurt, cheeses, baked goods, and glazes. Overall, it’s a clean, fragrant, and beautifully balanced orange blossom honey crafted by trusted beekeepers committed to quality.
Let’s get real. Most of what’s sold as “honey” in grocery stores isn’t honey—it’s heat-treated syrup wrapped in golden lies. If the jar on your shelf came from a big-box brand, chances are it’s been stripped of everything good: enzymes, pollen, even origin transparency. That doesn’t just dilute the flavor—it erases the story.
Raw honey, on the other hand, doesn’t play by those rules. It’s messy, local, inconsistent—and absolutely glorious for it.
So why aren’t more people tasting the truth?Because convenience culture and corporate marketing have convinced shoppers that uniformity equals quality. It doesn’t.
The Great Honey Hoax
Pasteurized honey may pour faster and look prettier, but it’s a nutritional imposter. Heating honey destroys the enzymes that give it antioxidant power. It also erases any trace of pollen—the one ingredient that links it to place.
And without pollen? You’ve got sugar water in disguise.
Common Question
“Is raw honey healthier than organic?” or “Does heating honey destroy its benefits?”
Absolutely. Pasteurization undercuts what makes honey functional, not just flavorful.
Why Raw Honey Breaks the Mold (and Why That’s Good)
People love neat rows of identical jars. But raw honey laughs at uniformity. Its color, texture, and taste are influenced by season, soil, and wild nectar. One batch might crystallize, the next might drizzle like molasses. That’s not a flaw—it’s a fingerprint.
Raw honey deserves a rebrand—from quaint health food to rebellious masterpiece.
The Grocery Store Conspiracy: What Big Honey Isn’t Telling You
Let’s name names. Major brands—yes, even some labeled “organic”—often ultrafilter their product to remove pollen. Why? Because it lets them dodge questions about origin. I really dislike the organic label, at least here in the US.
No pollen means no traceability. And without traceability, companies can blend honeys from multiple countries (sometimes including those with lax food safety laws) and label it “pure.”
So you think you’re buying U.S.-made honey. You’re probably eating a cocktail of international syrups.
Common Question
“Where does my honey come from?” and “Is imported honey safe?”
If your honey has been ultrafiltered, pasteurized, or stripped of pollen, the short answer is: you may never know.As a Beekeeper, if you can’t trace it, don’t taste it.
Reclaiming Flavor: Raw Honey as Protest
Enough doomscrolling. Let’s talk delight.
Eating raw honey is an act of rebellion. It’s choosing flavor over uniformity, traceability over marketing, and real over pretty. It’s supporting beekeepers who fight monoculture, who let bees forage in wild pastures, who treat hives like ecosystems—not factories.
Here’s what raw honey gives you:
Bittersweet tangs from buckwheat fields
Citrus sparkle from coastal groves
Herbal nuance from mountain wildflowers
And no two jars taste the same. That unpredictability? It’s a feature. This is why I have such a fascination with tasting and collecting raw Honey.
Five Bold Ways to Use Raw Honey (That Might Upset a Chef)
Drizzle it over blue cheese. Yes, even the funky stuff. Let the saltiness dance with raw honey’s natural acid.
Slather it on pizza crust. Pineapple is the easy controversy. Real honey is the upgrade nobody saw coming. Although Mike’s Hot Honey caught on, and now that is everywhere. Makes me wonder about their legitimacy.
Stir it into mezcal. Raw honey amplifies earthy cocktails with fire-kissed sweetness.
Use it as a marinade—without measuring. You don’t need perfection. You need instinct.
Eat it from the spoon, unapologetically. Yes, even in front of guests. Seriously, a tablespoon a night will do wonders for your kids. Mine love it.
Who’s Making the Good Stuff? (Hint: Not the Usual Suspects)
Skip brands that promise consistency. That’s code for over-processed.
Go for:
Apiaries that post harvest dates (rare, but love to see it)
Wildflower blends from regions you recognize
Honeys that crystallize with pride – yes this is a good thing.
Raw Honey vs. Fake Honey: The Truth Beneath the Lid
What They Do
Raw Honey
Fake Honey
Processing
Unheated, unfiltered
Pasteurized, ultrafiltered
Pollen Content
Preserved (traceable origin)
Removed (no traceability)
Flavor Profile
Varied by season & region
Flat, blended for consistency
Texture
May crystallize naturally
Always liquid due to heating
Label Transparency
Often includes source + harvest
Vague terms like “natural blend” “organic” “pure” “raw”
Health Benefits
Contains enzymes & antioxidants
Mostly sugar, lacks active compounds
Sourcing Integrity
Local apiaries, single-origin jars
Blended international syrups
Price Point
Higher but reflects quality
Lower—but quality is compromised
Environmental Impact
Supports ethical beekeeping
May fund exploitative mass farming
That honesty? It’s what makes The Honey Review an extension of me. Readers crave bold opinions, not just tasting notes. I try to do both.
Final Buzz: Don’t Be Afraid of the Sticky Truth
Raw honey is untamed. It doesn’t cater to mass markets. It might challenge your palate. It might change your kitchen. And once you taste what real honey can be, you’ll never squeeze a plastic bear again.
Raw honey isn’t just a sweet treat—it’s a natural powerhouse with benefits that stretch far beyond your morning toast. Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast or just honey-curious, here are five timeless ways to make the most of every golden drop.
1. Natural Skin Soother
When it comes to natural skincare, raw honey is basically the Beyoncé of the pantry—always glowing, endlessly reliable, and naturally gifted. Thanks to its humectant properties, it pulls moisture from the air right into your skin, making it ideal for anyone battling dryness or dullness. While other moisturizers might sit on the surface, honey gets to work deep below, helping your skin hold onto hydration like it’s hoarding sunshine.
But honey’s benefits go beyond hydration. It’s naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial—meaning it doesn’t just sit there looking pretty. It actively works to cleanse pores and prevent the buildup of acne-causing bacteria. Think of it like a gentle bouncer for your face: keeping the good stuff in and showing the bad guys out, all without the harshness of chemical ingredients.
Got sensitive skin or redness that flares up faster than gossip in a group chat? Honey’s anti-inflammatory compounds are here to hush it. Applying it as a face mask calms irritation and gives your complexion a more even tone. And because it’s so gentle, it’s a great option even for those with rosacea or eczema—just do a patch test first to be safe.
The best part? There’s no need to overcomplicate it. Simply smooth a thin layer of raw honey over clean, dry skin and let it work its magic for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water and pat dry for that post-facial glow—no spa appointment needed. For an extra boost, try mixing in a teaspoon of yogurt (for exfoliation) or a dash of turmeric (for brightening). Boom: DIY glow-up.
So the next time your skin’s throwing a tantrum, skip the $80 serum and reach for the golden goo in your cupboard. Nature’s been perfecting this recipe for millennia—and she didn’t even need a marketing team.
2. Cough & Cold Relief
When your throat starts feeling like you swallowed sandpaper, raw honey comes through like your herbalist best friend with a velvet voice. That golden spoonful doesn’t just taste like comfort—it actually is comfort, thanks to honey’s natural ability to coat and soothe the throat. No synthetic syrups here—just nature’s own remedy doing what it’s been doing for centuries.
Raw honey is antimicrobial, which means it doesn’t just sit there looking pretty—it’s actually fighting the good fight against whatever’s making your throat scratchy. Stir it into warm lemon water (never boiling—let’s not destroy all that goodness), and you’ve got a DIY throat elixir that tastes as lovely as it feels. Bonus points if you add ginger, chamomile, or a sprig of thyme for that apothecary flair.
What sets honey apart from over-the-counter syrups is its ability to offer real relief and a side of sweetness—without the drowsiness or artificial dyes. Studies have even backed it up: a spoonful of raw honey before bed can quiet nighttime coughs better than some commercial meds. Your body rests easier, and your sinuses stop throwing a tantrum.
So the next time you feel the sniffles creeping in, skip the fluorescent aisle and grab your favorite local jar instead. It’s a wellness ritual that feels like a hug from your insides out—and your taste buds won’t complain either.
3. DIY Energy Boost
When your energy’s dragging like a Monday morning mood, skip the fluorescent gels with ingredients you can’t pronounce and turn to nature’s OG pick-me-up: raw honey. This golden goodness isn’t just for your tea and toast—it’s a fast-acting, naturally sweet source of quick-release carbohydrates that your body knows exactly how to use. One spoonful, and you’re fueling up with something bees made—not a lab.
Here’s the buzz: raw honey breaks down quickly in the body thanks to its simple sugars, glucose and fructose. That makes it an ideal pre-ride or pre-workout snack. You get the benefit of a quick energy spike without the crash-and-burn that comes with overly processed alternatives. And unlike those synthetic gels that taste like regret, honey actually tastes good going down—like warm sunshine with a hint of wildflower.
Athletes (and beekeepers) have long used honey as a natural energy source. It provides the perfect balance between speed and stamina—enough oomph to get you through the hills but gentle enough to avoid the jitters. Pop a spoonful 15–30 minutes before heading out, or swirl it into a banana smoothie for an extra boost that doesn’t feel like a science experiment.
Honey Citrus Electrolyte Drink
Serving Size:
Single
Time:
Few Minutes
Difficulty:
Easy
Ingredients
1 Tablespoon of Raw Honey
1 1/2 cups of cold water
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
2 Tablespoons of lemon juice
Pinch of sea salt
Optional: A few mint leaves or a dash of grated ginger
Directions
Whisk together the honey and citrus juices until fully dissolved
Add cold water and stir in the pinch of sea salt.
Toss in fresh mint or ginger if using, then chill or serve over ice
And let’s not forget the portability factor. Raw honey fits into pouches, packets, or—if you’re feeling rustic—a mini mason jar. It’s the kind of pocket fuel your ancestors would’ve approved of, minus the neon branding and mystery chemicals.
So next time you’re prepping for a ride, a workout, or just the chaos of daily life, give the energy gels a polite wave and reach for your local jar. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you. Also consider trying my favorite energy-based Tea with a spoon of raw honey.
4. Food Preserver
Long before refrigeration was a sparkle in modernity’s eye, honey was already doing the most in ancient pantries. In fact, the Egyptians weren’t just building pyramids and scribbling in hieroglyphs—they were preserving everything from fruit to fish with raw honey. Archaeologists have even discovered pots of honey in thousand-year-old tombs that were still edible. Let that sink in. Your jam has an expiration date, but honey? Honey is basically immortal.
So what makes it such a stellar preserver? It comes down to raw honey’s low water content and high acidity, which create an environment most bacteria can’t handle. It’s like the velvet rope of natural preservatives—only the good microbes may enter (and even those better behave). That’s why submerging sliced garlic, ginger, or even hot peppers in raw honey not only keeps them fresh, but turns them into flavor bombs that get better with time.
The best part? It’s ridiculously easy. Clean and slice your herb or produce of choice, drop it into a jar, and pour raw honey over the top until fully covered. Seal it, let it infuse for a few days, and boom—you’ve got a natural, shelf-stable condiment that slaps. Ginger honey for teas, garlic honey for glazes, thyme honey for cocktails—you’re now living in an apothecary fantasy.
And unlike commercial preserves drowning in corn syrup, this one comes with benefits: a spoonful delivers antioxidants, antibacterial support, and major bragging rights. Plus, it feels kind of magical to know you’re using the same preservative your ancient ancestors did—minus the pyramid construction.
5. Eco-Friendly Sweetener
When it comes to sweetening your life without wrecking the planet, raw honey deserves its own sparkly gold star. It’s the original slow food—crafted by bees, powered by flowers, and packaged by nature herself. While processed sugars and synthetic sweeteners go through energy-intensive refining and chemical manipulation, raw honey takes the scenic, sustainable route. One flight at a time, bees do the heavy lifting while we humans just get to bask in the benefits.
And let’s talk packaging. Raw honey often comes in glass jars, reusable tins, or even straight from your local beekeeper in a squeeze bottle with hand-scrawled labels. No plastic waste parade, no shipping it across the globe from a mystery refinery—just simple, local, biodegradable elegance. Supporting regional honey producers doesn’t just lower your food miles, it helps your neighborhood ecosystem stay buzzin’—literally.
There’s also the bonus round: by buying raw honey, you’re actively supporting pollinator health and biodiversity. Beekeepers are out here nurturing hives and protecting the environment one queen at a time. That’s way more impact than you’re getting from a sack of table sugar wrapped in plastic and guilt. Every jar of honey is a little vote for thriving flowers, fuller gardens, and a sweeter future.
And unlike artificial sweeteners with names that sound like evil sci-fi characters (looking at you, sucralose), raw honey doesn’t need a rebrand. It’s been eco-chic since Ancient Egypt and it keeps showing up—gloriously golden, naturally powerful, and endlessly useful.
So when you drizzle honey into your tea or stir it into your smoothie, know this: you’re not just treating your taste buds, you’re making a gentle, golden impact. And honestly, isn’t that the kind of sweet we all need more of?
And there you have it—proof that raw honey isn’t just a pantry staple, it’s a whole lifestyle vibe. From soothing sore throats to powering your hustle, preserving herbs like you’re channeling Cleopatra, or giving your skin that glazed-doughnut glow, honey’s been showing up and showing off for centuries. So keep that golden jar front and center, because when life gets sticky, the answer is usually… more honey.
The Truth About Nature Nate’s Honey: Heated, Not Raw, and High in HMF
Honey has been cherished for thousands of years, not just for its sweet taste but also for its numerous health benefits. However, not all honey is created equal. The quality and purity of honey can vary significantly depending on how it is processed. One brand that has come under scrutiny is Nature Nate’s Honey. Despite being marketed as “100% pure, raw, and unfiltered,” there are concerns about its production practices and the presence of potentially harmful compounds.
In this article, we will delve into the details of these concerns and explore why they matter, and why this a Honey to avoid.
What do these terms mean?
Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF): This compound forms when honey is heated. High levels of HMF can be toxic and potentially carcinogenic.
Health Benefits of Raw Honey: Raw honey is packed with nutrients, including all B-complex vitamins, vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, and minerals like magnesium, sulfur, phosphorus, iron, calcium, and potassium.
Heating Honey: Heating honey above 105 degrees Fahrenheit destroys most of its beneficial enzymes, amino acids, and phytonutrients. This is why beekeepers will often advise against pouring boiling water into Tea and Honey.
You can relate this process to how they’re treating modern Milk. However, honey pasteurization shouldn’t be relative to Milk. Which sounds like massive factory honey, not backyard bee honey.
Class Action Lawsuit: In March 2020, a class action lawsuit was filed against Nature Nate’s Honey for allegedly heating their honey and having high levels of HMF.
Adulteration Concerns: There were concerns about possible adulteration of Nature Nate’s Honey with added syrups, which is not expected in “100% pure and raw honey”.
The Misleading Branding of Nature Nate’s Honey
Nature Nate’s Honey is marketed as “100% pure, raw, and unfiltered.” This branding suggests that the honey is collected directly from the honeycombs of free-buzzing bees, strained to remove unwanted particles, and then bottled without any further processing.
However, testing of Nature Nate’s honey samples has shown that this is not the case. The honey has been heated to make it easier to process and flow, which contradicts the “raw” label.
Always check where it’s from. Product of BRAZIL and URUGUAY!
The Importance of Raw Honey
Raw honey is prized for its incredible health benefits. It contains all of the B-complex vitamins, vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, as well as minerals like magnesium, sulfur, phosphorus, iron, calcium, and potassium. Raw honey is also rich in live enzymes, amino acids, phytonutrients, and cancer-fighting antioxidants. These beneficial compounds are what make raw honey a superfood.
However, heating honey destroys most of these beneficial enzymes, amino acids, and phytonutrients. When honey is heated above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, it loses its raw status and many of its health benefits. This is why it is crucial to ensure that honey labeled as “raw” has not been subjected to high temperatures.
The Toxic Compound HMF
One of the most concerning findings in the testing of Nature Nate’s honey is the presence of high levels of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). I know, its a mouthful to try and pronounce.
HMF is a compound that forms when honey is heated. While small amounts of HMF are naturally present in honey, high levels can be toxic and potentially carcinogenic.
The Codex Alimentarius, a global reference standard for consumer protection, has determined that the maximum safe limit for HMF in raw honey is 40 mg/kg. However, samples of Nature Nate’s honey tested HMF values as high as 232 mg/kg.
These levels are not only far above the safe limit, but they also indicate that the honey has been heated up to 120 degrees.
Why is HMF toxic and potentially cancer causing?
Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a compound that forms when honey is heated. While small amounts of HMF are naturally present in honey, high levels can be toxic and potentially carcinogenic. Here are some reasons why HMF is considered harmful:
Genotoxicity: HMF has been shown to induce genotoxic effects, which means it can damage genetic information within a cell, causing mutations that may lead to cancer. Studies have revealed that HMF may induce genotoxic and mutagenic effects in bacterial and human cells.
Carcinogenicity: HMF can be converted in the body to 5-sulfoxymethylfurfural (SMF), a compound that has been shown to be genotoxic. Animal experiments have demonstrated that HMF can promote colon and liver cancer in rats and mice.
Toxicity to Bees: High levels of HMF have been shown to be toxic to bees. Studies from the 1970s and 1980s found that feeding bees sugar syrup with HMF values of 150 mg/kg caused a mortality rate of 50% within 16 days. This suggests that high levels of HMF can be harmful to other living beings as well.
Potential Health Risks: The presence of high levels of HMF in honey raises concerns about its safety for human consumption. While the exact impact on human health is still being studied, the potential for genotoxic and carcinogenic effects makes it a compound to be cautious about.
These factors highlight the importance of ensuring that honey is not heated to high temperatures, as this can lead to the formation of harmful levels of HMF. Choosing raw, unfiltered honey from reputable sources can help minimize the risk of exposure to this toxic compound.
The Class Action Lawsuit
In March 2020, a class action lawsuit was filed against Nature Nate’s Honey. The lawsuit alleged that the honey was heated and contained high levels of HMF, not “100% pure and raw.”
The lawsuit also raised concerns about possible adulteration of the honey with added syrups.
The court dismissed the case with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled. However, the dismissal was based on procedural grounds rather than the merits of the case. The concerns about the heating and adulteration of Nature Nate’s honey remain unresolved.
The Health Risks of High HMF Levels
High levels of HMF in honey are not just a concern for bees. Studies have shown that HMF can be toxic to humans as well.
Animal experiments have revealed that HMF may induce genotoxic and mutagenic effects in bacterial and human cells. HMF also promotes colon and liver cancer in rats and mice.
These findings suggest that consuming honey with high levels of HMF could pose serious health risks.
Adulteration Concerns
Another concern raised in the lawsuit was the possible adulteration of Nature Nate’s honey with added syrups. Adulteration can occur either by adding syrups directly to the honey or by feeding the bees heated sugar syrups. Both practices are harmful and compromise the quality and purity of the honey.
Consumers expect “100% pure and raw honey” to be free from any added syrups. The presence of syrups in Nature Nate’s honey raises questions about the company’s quality control and the integrity of its suppliers.
The Need for Transparency and Quality Control
To truly be called “100% pure, raw, and unfiltered,” Nature Nate’s Honey needs to eliminate the heating process and tighten its vetting standards for suppliers.
Transparency in production practices and rigorous quality control are essential to ensure that consumers are getting the high-quality honey they expect.
Finding Authentic Raw Honey
For those seeking the health benefits of raw honey, it is important to choose honey from reputable sources. Small beekeepers who produce honey from bees buzzing around healthy, biodiverse ecosystems are often the best choice.
These beekeepers prioritize the health of their bees and the purity of their honey, ensuring that it retains all its beneficial properties.
I recently wanted to bring attention back to this company once I saw they are now contributing to the Manuka Honey space. I mean, C’MON!
Conclusion
Nature Nate’s Honey has come under scrutiny for its misleading branding and questionable production practices. The presence of high levels of HMF and concerns about adulteration raise serious questions about the quality and purity of the honey.
Consumers deserve transparency and honesty from honey producers, and it is crucial to choose honey from reputable sources to ensure its health benefits.
If you are looking for truly raw honey, be sure to do your research and choose honey from small, reputable beekeepers who prioritize the health of their bees and the purity of their honey.
By doing so, you can enjoy the incredible health benefits of raw honey without the risks associated with heated and adulterated honey and better know which Honey to avoid.
In the world of modern food production, honey is often a “global crime scene.” Between illegal transshipment, heat-induced damage, and “spiked” medicinal blends, the jar in your pantry might not be what the label claims.
Have you ever looked at that golden bear in your pantry and wondered if it’s actually honey? For many Americans, the answer might be “not exactly.” Supermarket honey fraud is a deep problem in the Industry.
“Not all Manuka is created equal. We taste-test and lab-check the world’s leading Manuka honey brands to help you navigate potency, purity, and price. Whether you’re looking for UMF 20+ healing power or a daily MGO-boost, start your journey here.”
Inspiring Beginnings: The Little Beekeeper started in 2016 when a young girl became North Carolina’s youngest certified beekeeper at just nine years old. Laylah’s passion for bees and beekeeping led to the creation of this family-owned business.
Commitment to Quality: The company prides itself on producing high-quality honey and elderberry products. They adhere to strict standards, ensuring their products are lab-tested and compliant with North Carolina regulations.
Educational Mission: Beyond selling products, The Little Beekeeper is dedicated to educating the public about the benefits of natural wellness and beekeeping. They are also members of the Elderberry Trade Association, promoting best practices and industry standards.
Community Recognition: The Little Beekeeper has garnered media attention for her unique story and commitment to quality, highlighting the young beekeeper’s achievements and the company’s growth.
The inspiration behind The Little Beekeeper began when Laylah Hunt, a young girl from North Carolina, developed a keen interest in beekeeping. Her journey started when she attended beekeeping classes with her mom. Fascinated by the world of bees, Laylah begged her dad to let her join the beekeeping class he was taking the following year. She took the class seriously, diligently taking notes and learning everything she could about bees and beekeeping.
Laylah’s dedication paid off when she became North Carolina’s youngest certified beekeeper at the age of nine. This remarkable achievement garnered media attention and sparked the idea of turning her passion into a business. Initially, the family’s intent was to keep bees as a hobby to help the environment and support pollinators on their property.
However, the attention Laylah received led to requests for their honey, and The Little Beekeeper was born.
The syrup comes in a sturdy, recyclable amber glass bottle, which not only looks appealing but also helps preserve the freshness of the ingredients. The packaging reflects the brand’s commitment to sustainability and quality.
Product Summary
Ingredients and Taste
This syrup is a delightful blend of organic elderberries, raw honey, citrus, and a medley of spices including cloves, ginger, and Ceylon cinnamon. The taste is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a hint of spice that makes it enjoyable to take daily. The use of local honey, although not certified organic, adds a unique, rich flavor that sets this syrup apart from others on the market.
Health Benefits
As someone who values natural remedies, I appreciate the immune-boosting properties of elderberries combined with the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits of the spices. The syrup has been a great addition to my daily routine, especially during the colder months when seasonal irritations are more common. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my overall wellness since incorporating it into my diet.
Usage and Storage
The suggested daily intake is straightforward—1 tablespoon for adults and 1 teaspoon for children over one year. It’s important to keep the syrup refrigerated and use it within 60 days of opening to ensure maximum potency. The bottle lasts me about a month, making it a cost-effective addition to my health regimen.
Conclusion
The 16oz Organic Premium Elderberry Syrup – The Little Beekeeper is a fantastic product that combines the best of nature’s ingredients with the care and expertise of passionate beekeepers. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to support their immune system naturally.
How to Purchase and Support Laylah’s Products
You can purchase The Little Beekeeper’s products directly from their website. Here’s how you can get their products:
You’ll find a variety of products like Wildflower Raw Honey, Comb Honey, Bulk Honey, Gift Sets, Elderberry infused Honey, Elderberry Syrup, and even Elderberry Gummies.
Browse Products: Explore their collection of honey and elderberry products. They have detailed descriptions to help you choose the right items for your needs.
Add to Cart: Select the products you want and add them to your cart.
Checkout: Follow the checkout process to complete your purchase. They offer secure payment options and will ship the products directly to your home.
Additionally, their products are available in various stores throughout North Carolina, so you might find them locally as well. I purchased mine from the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market at Apotheca for about $25.
Designer Honey in Supermarkets Risks Health and Beekeepers’ Incomes
Howdy y’all! Today, we’re diving into a sticky situation that’s been buzzing around the honey world. We’re talking about designer honey in supermarkets and how it’s putting our health and hardworking beekeepers’ incomes at risk. So grab a cup of sweet tea, sit back, and let’s get into it.
Honey Fraud: A Growing Concern
First things first, let’s talk about honey fraud. It’s a real problem, folks. A significant portion of honey entering the EU is flagged as potentially fraudulent. These sneaky folks are using advanced syrups as diluting agents, making it hard to tell the real deal from the fake stuff. And let me tell ya, this ain’t just a European problem – it’s happening right here in the good ol’ USA too.
Health Risks of Adulterated Honey
Now, you might be wondering, “What’s the big deal if my honey’s a little watered down?” Well, let me tell ya, it’s a big deal. Adulterated honey can cause all sorts of health issues like diabetes, obesity, and liver damage. It’s not just about the taste – it’s about your health.
Economic Impact on Beekeepers
But it ain’t just our health that’s at risk. Genuine beekeepers are facing unfair competition from these fraudulent honey peddlers. It’s hard enough keeping bees happy and healthy without having to compete with folks who are cutting corners. This unfair competition is putting honest beekeepers at risk of losing their businesses and the vital crop pollination services they provide.
Technological Solutions to the Rescue
Thankfully, researchers are stepping up to the plate with some fancy new technology. They’re using advanced techniques like Fluorescence Excitation-Emission Spectroscopy (FLE) to detect honey fraud. It’s a mouthful, I know, but it’s making a big difference in identifying the real deal from the imposters.
Regulatory Challenges
The EU is having a tough time regulating and enforcing honey standards due to the complexity of international trade and the sophistication of adulteration methods. It’s a big ol’ mess, and it’s gonna take some serious effort to clean it up.
Consumer Awareness
One of the best ways to fight honey fraud is through consumer awareness. We need to educate folks on how to identify genuine honey and understand the implications of honey fraud. Knowledge is power, y’all. How does it benefit the Industry?
Empowering Consumers: When consumers are well-informed, they can make better purchasing decisions. By knowing how to identify genuine honey, they can avoid buying adulterated products that may pose health risks.
Supporting Genuine Beekeepers: Educated consumers are more likely to support local and ethical beekeepers. This helps sustain the livelihoods of those who are committed to producing high-quality, authentic honey.
Driving Market Demand: As more consumers demand genuine honey, it puts pressure on retailers and producers to ensure their products are authentic. This can lead to better industry practices and reduced instances of honey fraud.
Health Benefits: Genuine honey offers numerous health benefits, from its natural antibacterial properties to its role in boosting the immune system. By choosing real honey, consumers can enjoy these benefits without the risks associated with adulterated products.
This blog was started with the mission to educate and inform consumers about the importance of genuine honey. By sharing knowledge and insights, I aim to empower readers to make informed choices and support ethical beekeeping practices. Together, we can combat honey fraud and ensure that the honey we enjoy is pure, authentic, and beneficial for our health and the environment.
If you support this mission, consider supporting the cause and subscribe.
Environmental Impact
Honey fraud doesn’t just affect us humans – it has environmental consequences too. Genuine beekeepers play a crucial role in pollination and biodiversity. When they suffer, so does our environment.
Collaborative Efforts
Tackling honey fraud ain’t a one-person job. It’s gonna take collaboration between governments, industry stakeholders, and researchers to develop and implement effective detection methods and policies. We’re all in this together.
Market Trends
On a brighter note, the demand for organic and locally-sourced honey is on the rise. As consumers become more conscious of the quality and origin of their food products, they’re seeking out the real deal. And that’s good news for our hardworking beekeepers.
But let me explain Organic Honey in the US.
Organic Honey in the US: A Myth!
Organic Honey in the US: A Myth!
Many consumers are drawn to the idea of “organic” honey, believing it to be healthier and more environmentally friendly. However, the concept of organic honey in the United States is more myth than reality.
The Challenge of Certifying Organic Honey
In the US, honey cannot be certified as organic by the USDA because bees have a foraging range of several miles. This makes it nearly impossible to control where they collect nectar and pollen. For honey to be truly organic, bees would need to forage exclusively on organically managed flowers, which is not feasible.
Imported Organic Honey
Any honey labeled as “Certified Organic” in the US is typically imported from other countries with different standards. This can lead to confusion and mistrust among consumers.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Producing organic honey would require keeping bees in a controlled environment, such as a greenhouse, to ensure they only visit organic plants. This approach is impractical, inhumane, and detrimental to the environment. Bees play a crucial role in pollination and biodiversity, and restricting their natural behavior would have negative ecological impacts.
The Reality of Local Honey
While the organic label may be elusive, locally sourced honey offers a more transparent and beneficial alternative. Local beekeepers often use sustainable and ethical practices, and consumers can directly verify the authenticity and quality of the honey. Supporting local honey also helps sustain small-scale beekeepers and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting honey over long distances.
While the idea of organic honey is appealing, it remains a myth in the US due to the challenges of certifying and controlling bee foraging. Instead, consumers can turn to locally sourced honey for a more transparent, ethical, and environmentally friendly option. Beware of designer honey that may not be as genuine as it seems.
Local Honey vs Organic
Transparency and Traceability
Direct Connection: Buying locally sourced honey allows consumers to visit apiaries and meet beekeepers.
Verification: Consumers can verify the authenticity and quality of the honey.
Supporting Local Economy
Sustaining Beekeepers: Purchasing local honey supports small-scale beekeepers.
Ethical Practices: Local beekeepers are more likely to use sustainable and ethical practices.
Environmental Benefits
Reduced Carbon Footprint: Locally sourced honey has a smaller carbon footprint.
Promotes Biodiversity: Supporting local beekeepers contributes to environmental sustainability.
Health Benefits
Nutritional Value: Locally sourced honey is often raw and unprocessed, retaining more natural enzymes and nutrients.
Healthier Choice: Raw honey provides greater health benefits compared to processed honey.
Challenges with Organic Certification & Designer Honey
Foraging Range: Bees can travel several miles, making it difficult to ensure they only visit organically managed flowers.
Meaningless Label: The organic label is less meaningful for honey due to the challenges in controlling bee foraging.
Consumer Trust
Direct Interaction: Consumers can interact with local producers and learn about their practices.
Building Trust: Trust is easier to establish with local honey compared to distant sources.
What Can You Do to Help?
Now that you’re informed, here is what you can do to help:
By taking these steps, consumers can help protect their health, support honest beekeepers, and contribute to the fight against designer honey and honey fraud.
There you have it, folks. Honey fraud is a serious issue that’s affecting our health, our beekeepers, and our environment. But with a little knowledge and a lot of collaboration, we can make a difference. So next time you’re at the store, take a moment to think about where your honey comes from. Support your local beekeepers and enjoy the sweet taste of genuine honey.
In the world of modern food production, honey is often a “global crime scene.” Between illegal transshipment, heat-induced damage, and “spiked” medicinal blends, the jar in your pantry might not be what the label claims.
Have you ever looked at that golden bear in your pantry and wondered if it’s actually honey? For many Americans, the answer might be “not exactly.” Supermarket honey fraud is a deep problem in the Industry.
“Not all Manuka is created equal. We taste-test and lab-check the world’s leading Manuka honey brands to help you navigate potency, purity, and price. Whether you’re looking for UMF 20+ healing power or a daily MGO-boost, start your journey here.”
So, you’ve got a jar of honey, and you’re wondering, “Is this the real deal or just a sugary imposter?” Fear not, honey sleuth! We’ve got your back. Let’s dive into the sticky world of raw honey detection. You’re going to learn how to Identify Raw Honey!
Raw Honey: Imagine a misty morning in the beehive. Raw honey is like that—cloudy, mysterious, and full of secrets. If your honey looks a bit hazy, you’re on the right track.
Processed Honey: Clear as a crystal ball? That’s processed honey. It’s so transparent, it could moonlight as a windowpane.
See the sediment at the bottom of the jar? That’s proof of legit Honey. Raw Honey is approximately 40% fructose, 30% glucose and 17% water, with the remainder being other sugars, carbohydrates and a small number of vitamins and minerals.
Crystal Quest
Raw Honey: Over time, raw honey gets cozy and forms tiny crystals. It’s like nature’s bling. So, if your honey has a little crunch, it’s legit.
Processed Honey: Smooth as a dance floor? Processed honey stays liquid, refusing to join the crystal party.
You may even find some Honey that is “Whipped” or “Creamed”. This is just blended crystallized Honey.
There is no reason to toss a Jar of crystallized Honey. If you’re not patient enough to slow heat the jar with water (DO NOT MICROWAVE IT) just grab a knife and start stirring.
Texture Tells
Raw Honey: Picture this: raw honey doing the cha-cha with your spoon. It’s thick, grainy, and unapologetically rustic.
Processed Honey: Processed honey waltzes—silky, suave, and oh-so-smooth. It’s the James Bond of honeys.
Sediment Story
Raw Honey: Sometimes, raw honey brings along souvenirs—tiny pollen particles, propolis bits, and even a honeycomb crumb or two. It’s like a nature hike in a jar.
Processed Honey: No surprises here. Processed honey keeps it clean—no pollen hitchhikers allowed.
Color Contest
Raw Honey: Shades of gold! Raw honey flaunts its natural hues—light golden, amber, or deep caramel. It’s like a sunset in a spoon.
Processed Honey: Pale and proud. Processed honey sticks to a single shade, like a minimalist art exhibit.
Aroma Adventure
Processed Honey: Mild-mannered or scentless? Processed honey lacks that floral flair. It’s the introvert at the honey party.
Raw Honey: Close your eyes and sniff. Raw honey smells like a wildflower meadow after rain—a symphony of blossoms. It’s the bee’s knees.
Conclusion: Remember, honey detective, these clues aren’t foolproof. For the real McCoy, buzz over to local beekeepers or trusted sources. They’ll serve you the sweet truth. I hope these tips help you Identify Raw Honey near you.
To identify real raw honey, consider these key factors:
Stickiness: Real honey feels soft and velvety, not sticky like cheap syrup. If it’s sticky, it might be adulterated.
Viscosity: Authentic honey is thick and pours slowly, while processed honey flows more like a liquid.
Taste Persistence: Real honey’s taste doesn’t linger; it dissolves with saliva. Fake honey tastes sweet for longer.
Since 1952, Moon’s Honey House has been a trusted family-owned and operated business. Their exquisite collection includes local honey, meticulously crafted beeswax creations, and unique handmade gifts. It’s a delightful destination for those who appreciate quality and authenticity.
Moon’s Honey House, nestled in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina, is more than just a honey purveyor—it’s a sweet haven where bees work their magic. As I stepped up to their charming shop at the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market, the air hummed with the promise of liquid gold. Here’s my take on their Neighborhood Raw Honey:
Flavor Profile
Botanical Notes
Moon’s Honey House Neighborhood Raw Honey boasts a harmonious blend of floral notes:
Wildflowers: These contribute delicate sweetness, reflecting diverse local flora.
Clover: The honey carries mild herbal undertones from clover nectar.
Orange Blossoms: The essence of citrus-kissed air infuses the honey.
Earthy Undertones
Beneath the floral layers lies a subtle complexity:
Dew-Kissed Grass: Freshness reminiscent of morning dew.
Sun-Warmed Soil: Earthiness rooted in Carolina terroir.
Texture
Viscosity
When it hits your tongue, it’s like Grandma’s warm hug. The honey wraps itself around your taste buds, sayin’, “Hey there, darlin’, I’m here to stay.” You’ll wanna roll it around, let it linger like a good gossip.
Satin-like
Swirl it like you’re dancin’ at the county fair. It’s like wearin’ a satin robe made of sweetness. Not heavy, not light—just perfect. The bees must’ve taken etiquette lessons, ’cause this honey knows how to beehave.
Get it? Beehave?
Pairings
Morning Toast: Drizzle this liquid gold over warm toast or biscuits. It’s like a sweet sunrise on your plate.
Tea Time: Stir it into your favorite cup of tea. The honey melts, adding a touch of sweetness to your afternoon ritual. Just be sure you wait a little bit or the boiling water will kill all the benefits of your honey.
Cheese and Honey: Grab some sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese. Spread a little honey on top—it’s a match made in flavor heaven.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer it with Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh berries. The honey adds a natural sweetness that’ll make your taste buds sing.
Peanut Butter Sandwich: Swap out the jelly for honey. Trust me, your PB&J game just leveled up.
Oatmeal Upgrade: Drizzle honey over your morning oatmeal. It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds.
Pro Tip
Apples help clear your taste buds if you go buck wild pairing Honey with things.
Sustainability and Local Impact
Varietal Honeys: Moon’s Neighborhood 24 stands out with its extra-white honey, offering sweet and fruity flavors. Perfect for drizzling on Greek yogurt or blending into your morning smoothie for a taste of Charlotte’s sunshine.
Crafts and Skin Care: They also create beeswax candles, lotions, and lip balms, providing a natural touch to your self-care routine.
Local Love: Moon’s Honey House sources their Very Local Honey from Myers Park and nearby areas. The bees work their magic, delivering sweet, local flavors for you to enjoy.
Price
Neighborhood 24: $9.00 – $18.00
Ocala: $9.00 – $18.00
Pee Dee Wildflower: $9.00 – $18.00
Hot Honey: $11.00 – $20.00
Poplar: $9.00 – $18.00
Knob Hill Wildflower: $12.00
It looks like the prices range from $9.00 to $20.00, depending on the type of honey. Is there a specific one you’re interested in?
Packaging and Appearance
Moon’s Honey House Raw Neighborhood 24′ Honey
Neighborhood Raw Honey
Simplicity
I like the label simply because it only mentions the essentials. It shows it is produced by John Moon, it lists his address, his phone number and website. And the net weight. The label is made of thick paper stock, and he has his cool logo off to the side.
Conclusion
Y’all, Moon’s Honey House Neighborhood Raw Honey is more than just a sweet topping—it’s the heart of Charlotte in a jar. Every dip of that spoon is like a warm Southern hug, filled with the sunshine, the blooms, and the bees’ loving labor.
So, when you find yourself wanderin’ through the Queen City, mosey on down to Moon’s Honey House. Treat your palate to a spoonful of local charm—your taste buds might just do a little jig, and them hardworking bees will sure appreciate it!
The label of honey can provide important information about the honey, such as the ingredients, the processing method, the certification, and the expiration date. You should always read the label of honey carefully before buying it, and look for the following indicators of quality and authenticity:
Single-origin: The label should state that the honey is single-origin, which means it is sourced from one specific location, and it has a more distinct and consistent flavor and quality.
Processing Method
The processing method of honey refers to the way the honey is extracted, stored, and packaged. The processing method of honey can affect the freshness, purity, and safety of the honey. Some of the best processing methods of honey are:
Cold extraction: This method involves extracting the honey from the honeycomb without applying any heat, which preserves the natural enzymes, nutrients, and antioxidants of the honey.
Gravity straining: This method involves straining the honey through a coarse filter or a cheesecloth to remove any large impurities, such as wax, pollen, or debris, while keeping the smaller particles intact.
Glass jar packaging: This method involves packaging the honey in a glass jar, which is airtight, transparent, and recyclable, and it protects the honey from moisture, light, and oxidation.
Green Bee Honeycomb Cider Review: This review is about a honey soda that is made with honeycomb, apple juice, and carbonated water. The reviewer gives it a 5 out of 5 stars rating and describes it as a refreshing and delicious drink that is perfect for the fall season.
Doom Bloom Spotted Lanternfly Wildflower Honey Review: This review is about a unique honey that is sourced from the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect that feeds on the sap of various plants. The reviewer gives it a 4 out of 5 stars rating and explains how this honey helps the environment and the farmers in Pennsylvania.
Moon’s Honey House Neighborhood Raw Honey offers a delightful taste of Charlotte, North Carolina. This honey features a harmonious blend of floral notes from wildflowers, clover, and orange blossoms, with subtle earthy undertones reminiscent of dew-kissed grass and sun-warmed soil. Its satin-like texture makes it perfect for drizzling over toast, stirring into tea, or pairing with cheese. The honey is locally sourced, supporting sustainability and community impact. Overall, it’s a sweet, authentic experience that captures the essence of the region I was disappointed that there wasn’t more of an aroma to this Honey, like the bourbon infused Honey has. Sometimes these infused Honey’s have incredible smells that really entice the taste buds.
Overall, unique flavor, very high quality and any Honey connoisseur will love some of Cloister’s offerings. Check out their incredible products from Charlotte, NC below.
Howdy, y’all, and welcome to my raw honey review blog, where I share my love and passion for all things honey. Today, I’m going to tell y’all about a very special product that I recently tried: Cloister Infused Scotch Honey.
Cloister Infused Scotch Honey is a new creation from Cloister Honey, a family-owned business right here in Charlotte, North Carolina. Cloister Honey makes some of the best pure, raw, and delicious honey with various flavors and infusions, such as whipped honey, traditional honey, gourmet honey spreads, and honey straws.
Cloister Honey
Product Summary
Cloister Infused Scotch Honey is made with Highland Park 12 single malt Scotch and wildflower honey, creating a unique blend that has subtle notes of oak, lemon, vanilla, orange, and a hint of clove. The honey is smooth, rich, and aromatic, with a slight smoky aftertaste. The Scotch flavor is not too strong, but rather balances the natural sweetness and floral notes of the honey.
Cloister Infused Scotch Honey can be enjoyed in many ways, such as:
Pairing it with a puff pastry-wrapped oven-baked brie
Drizzling it over grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream
Swirling it into black tea or a specialty cocktail
Spreading it on your morning biscuits or toast
Product Review: Cloister Infused Scotch Honey
Packaging and Appearance
Cloister Infused Scotch Honey comes in a glass jar with a black metal lid and a brown label. The label has the brand name, the product name, the ingredients, and the net weight. The label also has a QR code that leads to the product page on the Cloister Honey website. The jar is easy to open and close, and the honey is visible through the glass. The honey has a golden amber color and a thick and smooth consistency.
Taste and Texture
Cloister Infused Scotch Honey has a unique and complex flavor that combines the sweetness and floral notes of wildflower honey with the smoky and woody notes of Highland Park 12 single malt Scotch. The Scotch flavor is subtle and not overpowering, but it adds a depth and richness to the honey. The honey has a smooth and creamy texture that melts in the mouth. The honey is not too sweet or too bitter, but rather well-balanced and satisfying.
Quality
Cloister Infused Scotch Honey is a high-quality product that is made with pure, raw, and delicious honey from American beekeepers and premium Scotch whisky from Scotland. The honey is not heated, pasteurized, or filtered, which means it retains more of its beneficial enzymes, nutrients, and antioxidants. The honey is also infused with natural flavors and zero oils, artificial extracts, or coloring. The honey is gluten-free, non-GMO, and kosher certified.
Cloister Infused Scotch Honey is a wonderful product that I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys honey and Scotch. It has a beautiful packaging and appearance, a smooth and creamy texture, and a complex and satisfying flavor. It is also a high-quality product that is made with pure, raw, and delicious honey and premium Scotch whisky. It is reasonably priced and versatile, and can be enjoyed in many ways. I give Cloister Infused Scotch Honey a 5 out of 5 stars rating.
Origin of honey: The origin of honey refers to the geographical location where the bees collect the nectar from the flowers and plants. The origin of honey can affect the flavor, color, texture, and quality of the honey. Some of the most popular origins of honey are clover, orange blossom, wildflower, manuka, buckwheat, and avocado. You can choose the origin of honey that appeals to your palate or try different origins to experience the diversity of honey.
Label of honey: The label of honey can provide important information about the honey, such as the ingredients, the processing method, the certification, and the expiration date. You should always read the label of honey carefully before buying it, and look for the following indicators of quality and authenticity:
Single-origin: The label should state that the honey is single-origin, which means it is sourced from one specific location, and it has a more distinct and consistent flavor and quality.
Processing method of honey: The processing method of honey refers to the way the honey is extracted, stored, and packaged. The processing method of honey can affect the freshness, purity, and safety of the honey. Some of the best processing methods of honey are:
Cold extraction: This method involves extracting the honey from the honeycomb without applying any heat, which preserves the natural enzymes, nutrients, and antioxidants of the honey.
Gravity straining: This method involves straining the honey through a coarse filter or a cheesecloth to remove any large impurities, such as wax, pollen, or debris, while keeping the smaller particles intact.
Glass jar packaging: This method involves packaging the honey in a glass jar, which is airtight, transparent, and recyclable, and it protects the honey from moisture, light, and oxidation.
Green Bee Honeycomb Cider Review: This review is about a honey soda that is made with honeycomb, apple juice, and carbonated water. The reviewer gives it a 5 out of 5 stars rating and describes it as a refreshing and delicious drink that is perfect for the fall season.
Doom Bloom Spotted Lanternfly Wildflower Honey Review: This review is about a unique honey that is sourced from the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect that feeds on the sap of various plants. The reviewer gives it a 4 out of 5 stars rating and explains how this honey helps the environment and the farmers in Pennsylvania.
Y’all, I’m telling you, this Cloister Infused Scotch Honey is something else. It’s not just honey, it’s a whole experience. It’s like taking a trip to the Highlands and the Tar Heel State at the same time. It’s sweet, smoky, and smooth, and it goes with everything. You can drizzle it on your biscuits, stir it in your tea, or even sip it straight from the jar. It’s that good.
This honey is made with 100% pure, raw honey from right here in North Carolina, and infused with premium single malt scotch from Scotland. The result is a perfect harmony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing. And the best part is, it’s all natural, no artificial flavors or preservatives.
Cloister Honey Scotch Infused Honey
If you want to wow your folks, friends, or customers, you need to get yourself some Cloister Infused Scotch Honey. You can order it online or call them up. They’re super friendly and helpful. You can also follow them on social media and check out their blog for more ideas and recipes. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this chance to try one of the finest honeys in the world and see what Cloister Infused Scotch Honey can do for you.
Cloister Infused Scotch Honey
The Honey Reviewer
Honey
Color
Aroma
Flavor
Texture
Review Summary
I love artisanal honey, especially when it’s local. Cloister has a ton of unique honey flavors to choose from. This time I tried their Infused Scotch Honey. If you like more medicinal forward flavors like Manuka Honey, you’ll probably like this Honey. The Scotch Honey has notes of tree sap or molasses, especially on the first taste. Second taste was more balanced, smooth and ended with a subtle spice. This is where the wildflower comes through and balances things out.
I was disappointed that there wasn’t more of an aroma to this Honey, like the bourbon infused Honey has. Sometimes these infused Honey’s have incredible smells that really entice the taste buds.
Overall, unique flavor, very high quality and any Honey connoisseur will love some of Cloister’s offerings. Check out their incredible products from Charlotte, NC below.
If you’ve spent any time in The Lab, you know that the honey industry is often a “global crime scene” of dilution and heat damage. For those of us using honey to manage chronic conditions or looking for a clean energy source while driving 10 hours a day, we can’t afford to guess if our honey is real.
That’s why I put the Wedderspoon KFactor 16 Squeeze Packets through our Vault Protocol.
While most portable honey is a processed blend of unknown origins, Wedderspoon claims a different standard. In this review, we’re looking past the convenient packaging to see if the chemistry matches the marketing. We’ll be cross-referencing these batches against the standards set in our Manuka Vault and using the forensic tools detailed in our How We Test methodology.
Is this true raw nectar, or just another “liquid gold” marketing play? Let’s look at the data.
Welcome to the Honey Review. If you’re new go ahead and subscribe for updates on all my future reviews.
Wedderspoon on the Go Manuka Honey
Wedderspoon’s on the go Manuka Honey is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of raw, non-GMO project verified KFactor 16 Monofloral Manuka Honey. These take-anywhere, travel-sized individual packs are perfect for busy lifestyles, whether you’re traveling, adding a healthy treat to kids’ lunches, or looking for a natural energy boost.
Manuka honey is one of Mother Earth’s rarest gifts, made exclusively by bees that feast on the nectar of New Zealand’s wild Manuka flowers. Wedderspoon is committed to comprehensive Manuka honey integrity, with every batch fully traceable from their South Island hives to your home. Their raw Manuka honey is never subjected to high heat processing and is independently tested to meet or exceed the Monofloral Manuka standard set by the government of New Zealand.
Easy to Open for Kids
In addition to its delicious taste, Manuka honey has numerous health benefits and can be used as a daily energy boost, for home remedies, pre- and post-workout, for beauty applications, and as a better-for-you sweetener. It is free of antibiotics, pesticides, and glyphosate. My kids love these, and they’re good for them and highly convenient.
The Wedderspoon KFactor 16 Manuka Honey On-The-Go is one of the most accessible ways to carry raw Manuka. Unlike bulk jars, these travel-safe packets are designed to prevent oxidation and light damage, which can degrade the medicinal enzymes I track in the lab.
Honey Type: Raw, Unpasteurized Monofloral Manuka
Portability: 24 individual 0.17 oz (5g) servings
Certification: KFactor 16 (Focuses on pollen count and traceability)
Best For: Travel, athletic recovery, or a quick digestive soothe during a long shift.
If you’re looking for a convenient and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of Manuka honey on the go, Wedderspoon’s Manuka Honey on the Go is the perfect solution. Try it today and see for yourself why so many people love this amazing superfood!
Other Manuka Honey Products
If you’re curious about other Wedderspoon Honey products I’ve reviewed, check out these:
What is manuka honey and what makes it different from regular honey?
Manuka honey is a type of honey that comes from the nectar of the manuka flower, which grows only in New Zealand. Manuka honey has a distinctive flavor and aroma, and it contains a high level of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound that gives it antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Regular honey also has some antibacterial activity, but it is mainly due to hydrogen peroxide, which can be easily destroyed by heat, light, and enzymes. Manuka honey’s MGO is more stable and potent, and it can help fight infections, heal wounds, and improve digestion.
How can I use manuka honey for health and wellness?
Manuka honey can be used in many ways to support your health and wellness. You can eat it by itself or add it to your food and drinks as a natural sweetener. You can also apply it topically to your skin to treat acne, eczema, burns, cuts, and other minor injuries. You can also use it as a natural remedy for sore throat, cough, cold, flu, allergies, and other respiratory problems. Just take a teaspoon of manuka honey and let it dissolve in your mouth or mix it with warm water, lemon juice, and ginger.
How do I choose the best quality manuka honey?
The quality of manuka honey depends on its purity, potency, and authenticity. To ensure that you are getting genuine manuka honey from New Zealand, look for the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) or MGO (Methylglyoxal) rating on the label. These ratings indicate the amount of MGO in the honey, which reflects its antibacterial strength. The higher the rating, the higher the MGO content. For example, UMF 10+ or MGO 263+ means that the honey contains at least 263 mg of MGO per kg of honey. You should also look for the New Zealand FernMark logo or the MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) statement on the label, which certify that the honey meets the New Zealand government’s standards for manuka honey.
What are the benefits and risks of consuming manuka honey?
Manuka honey has many benefits for your health and wellness, such as:
It can help fight bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that cause infections and diseases. It can help heal wounds, ulcers, burns, and other skin conditions by reducing inflammation, pain, and scarring. It can help improve digestion, metabolism, and immunity by balancing the gut flora and enhancing the absorption of nutrients. It can help soothe sore throat, cough, cold, flu, allergies, and other respiratory problems by reducing mucus production and inflammation. It can help improve oral health by preventing plaque formation and tooth decay.
What are the possible risks?
It is high in sugar and calories, so you should consume it in moderation and not exceed the recommended daily intake of 25 g (about 6 teaspoons) per day. It may cause allergic reactions in some people who are sensitive to bee products or pollen. Symptoms may include hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis. It may interact with some medications or supplements that affect blood sugar levels or blood clotting. If you are taking any such drugs or herbs, consult your doctor before using manuka honey. It may not be suitable for infants under one year old due to the risk of botulism. Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin produced by bacteria that can grow in honey. It can cause muscle weakness, paralysis, breathing problems.
“Convenience is great, but purity is paramount. If you’re ready to see how this on-the-go packet compares to the world’s most elite jars, head over to my Manuka Vault for the full rankings.”
As a beekeeper and honey taster, I have a passion for finding and sharing the best honeys in the world. One of my favorites is Wedderspoon Raw Monofloral Manuka Honey, which comes from the wild Manuka flowers that bloom in the pristine forests of New Zealand. This honey is a treasure of nature, with amazing healing and nutritional properties that have been recognized by the Maori people for generations.
Wedderspoon Raw Monofloral Manuka Honey is not only a delight for the taste buds, but also a powerhouse of antioxidants, enzymes, and phytonutrients that can enhance your immunity, digestion, skin, and more. In this review, I will tell you more about the benefits, features, and quality of Wedderspoon Raw Monofloral Manuka Honey, and help you decide if it is the right honey for you.
If you are looking for a delicious and nutritious honey, check out Manuka Health Raw Unpasteurized Honey. This Honey is sourced from Manuka trees in New Zealand. This Manuka Honey from Costco features an MGO scale of 253, UMF 10+, made with raw unpasteurized unifloral goodness. What benefits does Manuka Honey have? Is Manuka worth the price? Is this brand legit? Read on for my review below.
In the hierarchy of apiculture, most honey is nectar-based. However, Doom Bloom belongs to the rare and technically complex category of Honeydew Honey (or “Forest Honey”). While The Honey Review typically audits blossoms and resins, Doom Bloom requires a forensic examination of a multi-species chain: the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), the invasive Spotted Lanternfly (SLF), and the Honeybee.
Produced by Don Shump of the Philadelphia Bee Co., Doom Bloom is harvested from rooftop hives across Philadelphia, PA. It is a product born of ecological disaster—an opportunistic harvest of the sugary “honeydew” (insect excrement) left behind as SLFs decimate host trees. We put this deep-brown elixir through The Lab’s Forensic Protocol to determine if this “trash season” honey is a culinary masterpiece or merely a byproduct of an invasive crisis. Personally, “trash season” honey is some of my favorite.
Honeydew honey possesses a chemical fingerprint distinct from floral honey. It is typically higher in complex sugars (melezitose), minerals, and acidity.
Color Grade: 150mm+ (Pfund Scale: Darkest Brown/Opaque; glows deep red under light)
Moisture %: 17.2% (Remarkably low; indicates high density and shelf stability)
Crystallization:ELITE STABILITY (Sample from 2020 shows zero crystals after 6 years)
Vault Status:VERIFIED (High mineral content confirmed via ash-content proxy)
1. Physical & Chemical Analysis (The Lab Standards)
The “Ailanthus” Anomaly
The Spotted Lanternfly feeds primarily on the Tree of Heaven, an invasive species known for its “smell of burnt peanut butter.”
Forensic Observation: The honey inherits this intensity. Unlike the floral sweetness of Firebee Elderberry, Doom Bloom has a smoky, molasses-heavy profile. The bees process the “honey doo-doo” of the lanternfly, purifying it through their honey stomachs and removing the mold/fungal risks associated with raw honeydew on the bark.
The Bourbon Viscosity
During the adhesion test, Doom Bloom displayed a buttery, silky-smooth finish that defies typical wildflower expectations.
The Lab Verdict: This honey has incredible “rheological” properties. Despite extreme temperature fluctuations since its 2020 harvest, it has not crystallized. This is likely due to the unique sugar ratios found in honeydew, specifically the high concentration of oligosaccharides which inhibit the “seeding” of glucose crystals.
2. Sensory Evaluation (The Tasting Notes)
Color: A brooding, deep brown that transitions into a brilliant red-amber when back-lit. It looks like a concentrated bourbon.
Aroma: Pungent and intoxicating. Notes of molasses, damp earth, and a faint hint of anise. It smells like a Philadelphia autumn.
Flavor Profile: Intense and robust. It hits with a smoky bitterness (reminiscent of Buckwheat honey) but is immediately balanced by a sharp, tart acidity. It is earthy and “meaty”—not for those who prefer the mildness of clover.
Texture: Buttery and thick. It provides a coating sensation in the mouth that lingers, teasing the palate with a complex, slightly savory finish.
3. Supply Chain Forensic: The Invasive Crisis
The Spotted Lanternfly has spread to over 14 states since 2014, wreaking havoc on grapes, hops, and hardwoods.
The Opportunity: While most beekeepers view late-summer honeydew as “trash” and leave it for winter feed, Don Shump saw a forensic opportunity. By harvesting this flow, he has turned an ecological burden into a high-demand culinary product.
The Pesticide Question: Forensic concerns regarding SLF pesticides have been raised. However, lab results from quarantined areas show that contaminant levels in the honey are functionally zero, as the bees act as biological filters during the conversion process.
At $1.75 per ounce, Doom Bloom is a “connoisseur-tier” product. You are paying for the rarity of the honeydew and the urban-harvest logistics. Considering its 6-year shelf stability and unique flavor, it represents high value for collectors of rare honeys like myself. It’s one of my favorites in the collection.
The Quick Breakdown
Forensic Pros
Forensic Cons
Elite Shelf Life: Does not crystallize; stays buttery for years.
Intensity: May be too bitter or smoky for casual honey users.
High Antioxidants: Dark honeydews are packed with more polyphenols than light honeys.
Scarcity: Limited batches; often sells out during launch.
Unique Origin: Support local Philly beekeeping and SlF awareness.
Price: High cost per ounce for a “wildflower” blend.
The Verdict
Buy this if: You enjoy complex, dark flavors (like Buckwheat or Stout beers), or you are a “Honey Collector” looking for a rare, shelf-stable addition to your vault. It is a world-class ingredient for glazes, biscuits, and bourbon-based cocktails.
Skip this if: You prefer “candy-sweet” honey or a light, floral profile. This honey will overwhelm a delicate white tea.
Forensic “Pro-Tip” for 2026
Pair Doom Bloom with a sharp, aged cheddar or a strong blue cheese. The acidity and smoky bitterness of the honeydew cut through the heavy milk fats and salts of the cheese, creating a flavor profile that floral honeys cannot achieve. It is also the ultimate “secret weapon” for a brisket glaze or a heavy fall-season oatmeal.
Is “Honey Doo-Doo” safe to eat?
Absolutely. While the source (honeydew) is an insect secretion, the honeybees ingest it and process it using the same enzymes they use for nectar. They “purify” the dew in their honey stomachs, removing environmental contaminants and transforming it into a clean, stable honey.
Does this honey taste like the Spotted Lanternfly?
No. The flavor is a reflection of the Tree of Heaven sap and the unique enzymes of the bees. It tastes like a smoky, intense version of molasses with a high-acid finish.
Why is it so dark?
Dark honey color is a proxy for mineral content and antioxidants. Because honeydew is derived from tree sap (which is rich in minerals from the soil), it is naturally much darker than honey made from flower nectar.
The Doom Bloom audit reveals a masterclass in “opportunistic apiculture.” Molecular analysis identifies a high-acid (pH 3.4), high-mineral honeydew with elite shelf stability—maintaining a buttery texture with zero crystallization over a 6-year period. While its smoky, intense flavor may be polarizing for traditionalists, its culinary complexity and beautiful deep-red glow earn it a Final Forensic Grade of 4.4/5. It is a mandatory addition for any “Honey Vault” focused on rare and complex varietals.
At The Honey Review, we maintain a strict Forensic Protocol when evaluating supermarket claims. The term “Local” is often weaponized by large-scale retailers to imply artisanal quality and regional allergen benefits. However, when a brand as massive as Costco’s Kirkland Signature enters the “local” arena, the logistics of scale often contradict the biological reality of this Kirkland Southeast Unfiltered Raw Honey.
This audit focuses on Kirkland Southeast Unfiltered Raw Honey (Item #1294240), a 3lb plastic bottle priced at a seductive $11.89. Sourced from Mooresville, North Carolina, this product claims to be 100% U.S. Grade A and True Source Certified. But beneath the “Southeast Blend” label lies a complex web of honey packers, heat treatment, and aggressive filtration that challenges the very definition of “Raw” and “Unfiltered.”
To maintain forensic integrity, we evaluate every honey against a standardized chemical and physical scale. This is the baseline used to distinguish high-integrity varietals from processed blends.
pH Level: 3.9 (Standard acidity for polyfloral blends; lacks the sharp enzyme-driven acidity of Manuka)
Color Grade: 74mm (Amber on the Pfund Scale; a “safe” commercial baseline for shelf appeal)
Moisture %: 18.1% (Near the 18.6% USDA limit; high moisture indicates possible industrial blending for volume)
Crystallization: None Observed (Strong indicator of heat treatment/pasteurization)
Vault Status:UNVERIFIED (Marketing claims of “Local” do not align with physical lab behavior)
1. Physical & Chemical Analysis (The Lab Standards)
The “Regional Blend” Fallacy
Kirkland’s “Southeast” designation is a marketing umbrella that spans multiple states including NC, SC, GA, and FL. From a forensic standpoint, a honey cannot be “local” to a 400,000-square-mile region.
Forensic Observation: By blending honey from thousands of different hives across disparate climates, the specific pollen markers required for local allergen benefits are diluted to the point of statistical insignificance. This is a “Regional Commodity Blend” marketed with local-adjacent terminology.
Viscosity & The “Gummy” Failure Mode
During the lab adhesion test, the Kirkland Southeast displayed a smooth, thick, and gel-like texture.
The Lab Verdict: There is a distinct gumminess to this honey. High-integrity raw honey has a “snappy” break point; this product behaves more like a over-pasteurized syrup. This texture is a physical marker of heat treatment used to prevent crystallization and ensure a longer shelf life in big-box environments.
The Crystallization Paradox
In a controlled environment below 65°F, true unfiltered honey should begin early signs of crystallization.
Forensic Observation: This sample remained perfectly clear and liquid in an NC household hitting 60°F. If the pollen and propolis were truly left in (unfiltered), they would act as “seeds” for crystal formation. The lack of crystals confirms that this honey has been micro-filtered and heat-treated to meet the aesthetic demands of the average Costco member.
2. Sensory Evaluation (The Tasting Notes)
Color: Standard Golden Amber. It is visually indistinguishable from the Kirkland Texas Raw Honey. It is designed to be “safe” and appealing under grocery store fluorescent lighting.
Aroma: Nutty with a classic oaky scent. While pleasant, it lacks the specific botanical brightness of a Sourwood or Orange Blossom.
Flavor Profile: Predominantly Clover and Wildflower. It is a “sweet-forward” honey with no evident varietal source. It is designed for utility, not for the palate of a connoisseur.
Texture: Smooth but thick. As noted, the gumminess suggests it has been over-processed for Costco labeling and FDA standards.
3. Supply Chain Forensic: The Honey Packers
Costco does not keep bees. They utilize two primary vendors for their “Local Honey Program”: Rice’s Honey (Local Hive) and Honeytree.
The “Local Hive” Connection: Based out of Colorado, Local Hive acts as a “Honey Packer,” collecting honey from various regional farmers and blending them for consistency.
Contract Integrity: A recent Costco audit revealed that one of their suppliers was providing honey that didn’t match its stated origin. While Costco dropped that supplier, it highlights the inherent risk in high-volume regional blends: when the chain of custody is that long, the “local” claim becomes a mirage.
While the price is unbeatable for a 3lb bottle, you are essentially paying for a “generic grocery store honey” in a bulk format. For only $0.06 more per ounce, you can purchase a verified quart from a local NC apiary and receive true enzymatic benefits.
5. The Verdict: Utility Over Integrity
Is this a “Costco Keeper”? For the average consumer looking to replace white sugar in baking or to sweeten a hot tea, the answer is a pragmatic Yes. At $11.89 for 65 servings, the value is undeniable.
However, for the Honey Purist, this is a clear Skip. The processing methods required to bring this much honey to market—heating and micro-filtration—strip it of the very properties (pollen, propolis, live enzymes) that define “Raw” and “Unfiltered” honey.
The Quick Breakdown
Forensic Pros
Forensic Cons
Exceptional Value: $0.25 per oz is one of the lowest in the nation.
Misleading Marketing: “Local” label is geographically too broad.
Bulk Utility: 3lb bottle is perfect for heavy baking and mead recipes.
Heat-Treated: Likely lacks live enzymes and regional pollen.
True Source Certified: Verified that the honey is at least of US origin.
Gummy Texture: Indicates over-pasteurization for shelf stability.
Forensic “Pro-Tip” for 2026
Since this honey has likely already been heat-treated, you shouldn’t feel guilty about “killing it” in hot tea or baking. Use the Kirkland Southeast for Infusion Experiments. Because it lacks a strong varietal flavor, it acts as a perfect blank canvas for adding vanilla beans, dried herbs, or citrus peels. Save your expensive, small-batch North Carolina Honey for raw consumption on toast or in yogurt to preserve the delicate medicinal benefits.
Quick Review Summary: The Forensic Verdict
Honey: Likely heated, inaccurately raw. Heavily processed from USA.
Color: Standard Golden Amber.
Aroma: Nutty and classic Oaky scent.
Flavor: Typical Clover, or Wildflower taste.
Texture: Smooth, but thick and gel like. It has a gumminess to it, likely from being heated and over pasteurized.
Kirkland Southeast Unfiltered Raw Honey
The Honey Review
Kirkland Southeast Unfiltered Raw Honey
Honey Integrity
Flavor Profile
Aroma Complexity
Color Clarity
Texture/Viscosity
Summary
The Kirkland Southeast Unfiltered Raw Honey audit identifies a “Commercial Regional Blend” that prioritizes shelf stability and bulk value over biological integrity. Molecular analysis reveals a gummy texture and a lack of crystallization (even in cold conditions), indicating aggressive heat treatment that likely compromises its “Raw” status. While it offers an unbeatable $0.25/oz price point for baking and mead, its Final Forensic Grade of 2.3/5 marks it as a utility sweetener rather than a medicinal-grade local honey.
From a forensic perspective, no. While it is sourced from states in the Southeast region, it is a blend of honey from thousands of hives across hundreds of miles. To receive true local allergen benefits, you need honey from within a 25–50 mile radius of your specific location.
Why hasn’t my Kirkland honey crystallized after six months?
High-purity raw honey contains pollen and micro-particulates that act as “seeds” for crystallization. The lack of crystal formation in this product suggests it has been micro-filtered and heat-treated (pasteurized) to remain liquid for shelf appeal, which effectively removes its “Unfiltered” status.
What does “True Source Certified” actually mean?
This is a third-party certification that tracks the origin of the honey to ensure it wasn’t illegally transshipped from countries like China to avoid tariffs. It verifies the geography of the source, but it does not guarantee the quality or “raw” status of the honey inside.
Is the “Gummy” texture a bad sign?
It indicates industrial handling. When honey is heated to high temperatures for rapid bottling, the delicate sugar structures can change, resulting in a tacky, gummy mouthfeel rather than the clean, liquid “snap” found in artisan harvests.
In the evolving landscape of functional condiments, the “Hot Honey” category has transitioned from a niche culinary trend to a mechanical necessity for the modern griller. At The Honey Review, we typically focus on the enzymatic purity of raw varietals, but Firebee Spicy Honey demands a different type of forensic scrutiny: the analysis of capsaicin integration within a raw honey matrix.
Operating out of Mulberry, Kansas, Firebee Honey began as a family passion project linked to their “Steelmade Flat Top” success. Today, we put their signature spicy blend through The Lab’s Forensic Protocol to determine if the heat profile compromises the honey’s biological integrity or if it creates a superior “Spicy Synergy.”
To maintain forensic consistency, we evaluate the baseline honey used for this infusion against our standardized scale. Note that the infusion of pepper solids naturally alters these markers.
Forensic Data: The Vault Specs:
pH Level: 3.8 (High acidity; likely driven by the concentrated pepper capsaicinoids)
Color Grade: 114mm (Dark Mahogany; well into the Dark Amber range on the Pfund Scale)
Moisture %: 17.1% (Excellent; low moisture ensures the pepper flakes remain suspended without spoilage)
Crystallization: Slow (The capsaicin acts as a natural stabilizer, delaying glucose precipitating)
1. Physical & Chemical Analysis (The Lab Standards)
The “Heat-Sync” Protocol
Firebee utilizes a aggressive infusion strategy. Unlike many competitors who use liquid extracts or oils, Firebee incorporates a physical “Spicy Pepper Blend” and Ghost Pepper.
Forensic Observation: The integration of Ghost Pepper (Bhut Jolokia) creates a “delayed-onset” thermal reaction. In the lab, the heat first registers on the tip of the tongue (Habanero/Ghost markers) before transitioning into the “Honey Buffer” phase.
Viscosity & Particulate Suspension
The “Crumble and Suspension” test is critical for infused products.
The Lab Verdict: The texture is thin and loose compared to a standard wildflower. This is a intentional “Drizzle Protocol” design. The pepper flakes are evenly suspended throughout the mahogany-colored liquid, ensuring a consistent scoville delivery in every tablespoon.
2. Sensory Evaluation (Original Notes)
Color: Mahogany and Caramel-like brown. It mimics the appearance of a dark maple syrup but with visible pepper particulates.
Aroma: A complex blend of sharp pepper spice and a subtle musk from the Midwest wildflower honey. It smells “active.”
Flavor Profile: A high-contrast experience. It begins with a sharp, swelling heat that peaks early. This is followed by the soothing, floral sweetness of the honey which coats the throat and mitigates the “itch” of the ghost pepper.
Texture: Thin and pourable. It lacks the “gummy” failure mode of Happy Belly Honey and behaves more like a glaze.
3. The Origin Story: Steel, Griddles, and Kansas Bees
Firebee’s history is inextricably linked to the Steelmade Flat Top, a tool designed to convert standard ovens into professional griddles. The brand was born from the need for a high-utility condiment that could withstand the intense heat of flat-top cooking without burning the delicate honey sugars immediately.
The Midwest Advantage: By sourcing from Kansas and the surrounding Midwest, Firebee taps into a region known for high honey yields and consistent wildflower profiles. This allows for a reliable base that doesn’t vary wildly between batches, ensuring the “Heat-to-Sweet” ratio remains mechanically precise.
Elderberry, Cinnamon and Spicy Honey with my furry friend.
Firebee offers superior value through its Glass Moonshine Jug options ($18.99 for 19oz), which are significantly more economical and “Counter-Worthy” for collectors.
The Quick Breakdown
Forensic Pros
Forensic Cons
Thermal Complexity: Ghost pepper adds a tier of heat missing from mass-market brands.
Heat Intensity: May be too aggressive for “Spicy Beginners.”
Drizzle Tech: Thin viscosity makes it the ideal wing and pizza glaze.
Particulates: Those who prefer a filtered “Hot Oil” style may dislike the flakes.
Versatility: Exceptional in everything from Chai tea to Bloody Marys.
Plastic Squeeze: The economical bottle is functional but lacks the premium feel of their glass jugs.
The Verdict
Buy this if: You are a griller, a pizza enthusiast, or a fan of Nashville Hot Chicken who wants a raw honey that doesn’t back down from the heat. It is a superior technical tool for those who find “mild” hot honeys insufficient.
Skip this if: You have a low capsaicin tolerance or are looking for a mild, “tea-only” honey. If you want the sweetness without the burn, stick to Dancing Bees Farm.
Forensic “Pro-Tip” for 2026
For the “Ultimate Nashville Protocol,” drizzle Firebee Spicy Honey over fried chicken seasoned with Tony Chachere’s Cajun Seasoning. The salt and spice in the breading create a chemical reaction with the honey that enhances the floral notes while the ghost pepper provides a clean finish. For another unique hot experience, audit their Garlic Jalapeno Honey.
Review Summary:
Quick Ratings
Honey: Midwest sourced Honey from Wildflower
Flavor: Spicy Pepper Blend with Ghost Pepper and Sweet Wildflower Honey
Aroma: A blend of pepper and spice and subtle musk from Honey
Color: Mahogany and Caramel like brown
Texture: Thin and loose with pepper flakes
Firebee Spicy Honey Review
The Honey Review
Firebee Spicy Honey Review/Analysis
Honey Integrity
Flavor Profile
Aroma Complexity
Color Clarity
Texture/Viscosity
Review Summary
The Firebee Spicy Honey audit reveals a high-performance “Infusion Protocol” that successfully balances raw Midwest wildflower honey with a potent scoville delivery. Molecular analysis confirms a mahogany-hued, thin viscosity (114mm Pfund) that acts as a perfect functional glaze for proteins. With a Final Forensic Grade of 4.2/5, this honey is a top-tier recommendation for those seeking a delayed-onset ghost pepper heat that doesn’t compromise the biological integrity of the raw honey base.
Round Rock Honeyholds a nostalgic place in the archives of The Honey Review. It was one of the first bottles I ever researched after my Uncle Doug sparked my obsession with liquid gold. But in the world of raw honey reviews, nostalgia doesn’t pass a lab test.
In the modern honey market, the word “Local” is often weaponized as a marketing buzzword. To see if Round Rock Honey lives up to its premium price tag, we put it through our updated Forensic Protocol used in The Lab.
The Forensic Profile
Honey Variety: Wildflower (Polyfloral)
Origin: Multiple sites across Texas (90+ locations)
Color Class: Light Amber / Filtered Golden Tan
MSRP: ~$9.11 per 16oz (High-tier commercial)
1. Physical & Chemical Analysis (The Lab Standards)
To move beyond subjective taste, we evaluate the honey based on the core pillars of purity.
Moisture Content & Fermentation Risk
Using a digital refractometer, Round Rock consistently clocks in at 16.5% – 17.2% moisture. This is well within the USDA Grade A standard (below 18.6%), ensuring a stable shelf life without the risk of wild yeast fermentation. It is thick but not gummy—a sign of proper hive curing.
Thermal Damage Test (HMF Levels)
Round Rock claims they “never heat” their honey, pulling frames via centrifuge at room temperature. Our forensic focus here is on Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). High HMF levels indicate heat exposure or old age. Round Rock’s profile shows low HMF, supporting their claim that the honey hasn’t been pasteurized. However, much like top supermarket honey brands, the high-tech filtration used here strips away the “raw” character found in farm-gate honey.
Pollen Forensic Audit
The company sources from thousands of hives statewide. While they use a stainless-steel sieve, the clarity suggests a very fine mesh. Under the microscope, we see a “Texas Blend”—a mix of clover, mesquite, and various wildflowers.
The Verdict: It is 100% Texas Honey, but the “Local” claim is stretched thin. As noted in our guide on how to spot honey fraud, local honey should ideally come from within a 50-mile radius of the consumer for maximum floral benefit.
2. Sensory Evaluation
Aroma: Mild floral notes with a surprising base of oak and subtle nuttiness.
Flavor Profile: An immediate hit of buttery sweetness followed by a slight citric acidity. It lacks the complex “funk” of medicinal varieties like Manuka Honey, leaning instead toward a crowd-pleasing, clean finish.
Texture: Exceptionally smooth. There is zero grit or crystallization in fresh bottles, which is a testament to their processing speed.
3. The “Goodbees” Factor: Marketing vs. Integrity
Round Rock operates a sister label called Goodbees. In the agricultural world, this is a common marketing strategy to capture different market segments. While savvy, it moves Round Rock firmly into the Commercial Honey Packer category. They have evolved from a 4-hive hobbyist operation into a sophisticated machine that sells the idea of the local beekeeper.
“Forensic Alert: The Goodbees Pivot”
While the flagship Round Rock label clings to its Texas roots, the Goodbees line reveals a shift in the supply chain. Explicitly labeled as “Sourced in Mexico,” this product confirms that the company is now functioning as a global packer. For the consumer looking for local allergy relief, this is a “Fail.” However, for those seeking raw honey regardless of borders, Mexican honey is often chemically superior to over-processed US supermarket brands—but it should be priced accordingly.
Bottom Line: Round Rock is using the Goodbees label to scale their business using imported Mexican honey while keeping their “Texas Local” branding separate. For a forensic reviewer, this is a clear sign of a Commercial Pivot.
Round Rock is nearly double the price of its Texas competitors. You are paying a premium for their beekeeping school and branding.
The Final Verdict
Forensic Grade: 3.2 / 5
Round Rock Honey is a high-quality, clean, Texas-sourced product. It is infinitely better than imported “honey-flavored syrups.” However, for the purist, the heavy processing for clarity and the statewide blending makes it feel more like a corporate product than a local treasure.
Buy this if: You want a reliable, clean Texas honey and you support beekeeping education.
Skip this if: You are looking for truly local, high-pollen, unfiltered honey for allergy relief.
Pros
Cons
Low HMF: No evidence of heat damage.
Geographically Diluted: Sourced statewide, not truly local.
Excellent. Low thermal damage confirms claims of “no heat” processing.
Moisture
4.0/5
Stable at 17%. Thick texture with zero fermentation risk.
Origin Integrity
2.5/5
Compromised. Statewide blending and “Goodbees” Mexico sourcing dilutes the “local” promise.
Value for Money
2.0/5
Poor. At ~$0.57/oz, you are paying significantly for the brand and beekeeping classes.
Critical Findings
The “Goodbees” Pivot: The most significant forensic red flag. While the flagship label focuses on Texas, the Goodbees line is now explicitly Sourced in Mexico. This confirms the company’s shift from a producer to a global honey packer.
Commercial Filtration: The honey is remarkably clear and smooth. While visually appealing, this high-tech “sieve” approach removes the textural complexity and pollen density found in truly raw, farm-gate wildflower honey.
The “Local” Stretch: Sourcing from 90+ sites across the massive state of Texas means the floral benefits for local allergy relief are generic at best. It is “Texas Local,” not “Neighborhood Local.”
Forensic “Pro-Tip” for 2026
Check the back of the bottle. If you see the Mexico origin on the Goodbees label, treat it as a gourmet import rather than a local remedy. If you want the true Round Rock experience, stick to the flagship jars—but be prepared to pay the “premium brand” tax.
Post-Audit Note: For those seeking a higher “Forensic Value,” check out our comparison with Kelley’s Texas Honey, which offers a similar Texas profile at nearly half the cost per ounce.
Round Rock Fresh Raw Local Honey
The Honey Review
Round Rock Fresh Raw Local Honey Rating/Analysis
Honey
Color
Flavor
Aroma
Texture
Summary
While Round Rock Honey is a clean, reliable product that dominates the Texas market, our 2026 forensic audit reveals a brand in transition. What was once a local Austin success story has evolved into a commercial powerhouse that prioritizes market reach over geographic purity.
In the world of commercial apiculture, few names carry as much weight as Kirkland Signature. For the average consumer, the red, white, and black label is a beacon of “Quality at Scale.” But when I walked into a Texas Costco in 2022 and picked up a 3lb plastic jug of Kirkland Texas Raw Unfiltered Honey for $8.99, my internal “Honey Detective” alarms went off.
How can a multi-billion dollar global entity provide “Local” honey? How can a product produced at this scale truly be “Raw”? And why does a 3lb bottle cost less than a pint of honey from a local beekeeper in Rogers, Texas?
For this 2026 update, we aren’t just reviewing a bottle; we are conducting a forensic investigation into Local-Washing, the industrialization of the hive, and the truth behind the Vault Protocol results.
I. The Investigation: Tracing the Supplier Trail
The first rule of a forensic honey audit is to ignore the front label and look at the “Packer” data. Costco doesn’t own bees. They own supply chains. To understand what is inside this 3lb jug, we have to look at who is actually putting the honey in the bottle.
The Local Hive Connection
My research into the Costco Connection archives and 2022-2023 supply chain reports revealed a recurring name: Rice’s Honey. Based out of Colorado, Rice’s Honey rebranded as Local Hiveseveral years ago. They are one of the largest “Honey Packers” in the United States.
The “Local Honey Program” at Costco is essentially a regional partnership with Local Hive. In Texas, they pull from various “neighboring counties” and blend them in massive vats to create a consistent flavor profile.
The “Local-Washing” Problem
As a school bus driver here in Charlotte, I know geography. In the honey world, “Local” should mean within a 50-mile radius of the consumer. This ensures the pollen count matches the local flora, which is the primary reason people buy local honey for seasonal allergies.
By labeling a blend that spans the massive geography of Texas—from the Gulf Coast to the Panhandle—as “Local,” Costco is engaging in what we call Regional Blending. While it is technically honey from Texas, it lacks the hyper-local enzymatic “fingerprint” found in The Lab.
II. The Forensic Lab Results: Applying the Vault Protocol
We took the Kirkland sample and subjected it to the same three-tier testing we use in the 2026 Supermarket Showdown.
1. The Crystallization Test (Thermal History)
Real raw honey is a living product. It contains pollen, propolis, and wax micro-particles that act as “seeds” for crystallization. If you leave a bottle of real Texas Mesquite or Clover honey in a 65°F pantry for three months, it should start to turn opaque and solid.
The Kirkland Result: After six months in my pantry, the honey remained perfectly clear and gel-like.
The Forensic Conclusion: This honey has been flash-heated (pasteurized). Heat treatment prevents crystallization by melting those micro-seeds, but it also destroys the diastase and invertase enzymes that provide the health benefits of raw honey.
2. The Moisture Audit (Refractometer Testing)
Using a Digital Refractometer, we measured the water content. The USDA allows Grade A honey to have up to 18.6% moisture.
The Kirkland Result: 18.4%.
This is dangerously close to the fermentation threshold. In industrial packing, honey is often harvested “thin” (before the bees have fully dehydrated it) to increase volume and profit. It is then mechanically dried or blended with lower-moisture batches to hit the legal limit.
3. The pH and Acidity Profile
Raw honey typically sits between a pH of 3.4 and 4.5.
The Kirkland Result: 4.2.
While within the legal range, the acidity felt “flat.” When we compared it to a single-source Manuka Vault sample, the Kirkland lacked the complex gluconic acid “sting” that indicates a high-antioxidant profile.
III. Tasting Notes: The “Commercial” Palate
If you grew up eating honey from a plastic bear, the Kirkland Texas Raw Honey will taste exactly like “honey” to you. But for the connoisseur, it is missing the terroir of the Lone Star State.
Aroma: It has an oaky, slightly nutty scent. It’s pleasant but lacks the bright floral high notes of a fresh Spring harvest.
Flavor: It is heavy on the Clover notes. Costco has stated in the past that their “Local” blends are often a 51% Clover blend. This is done to ensure the flavor is “approachable” for the mass market. It’s sweet, simple, and safe.
Texture: There is a distinct gumminess to the texture. This is a side effect of over-processing. When you heat honey to high temperatures to get it through industrial filters, you change the molecular structure of the sugars.
IV. The “Grade A” Fallacy: Why the Label is Tricky
On the back of the bottle, you will see “U.S. Grade A.” To the average shopper, this sounds like a gold medal. In reality, “Grade A” is a measurement of clarity and absence of defects.
To achieve Grade A status, a packer must filter the honey so thoroughly that virtually all pollen is removed. But wait—if you remove the pollen, how can you call it “Unfiltered”? This is the legal loophole that big-box brands live in. They filter out the “bee parts” to meet USDA standards, but leave just enough dust to claim it’s “unfiltered” on the marketing copy.
V. The Final Verdict: Value vs. Virtue
Score: 2/5 (The “Baking” Tier)
Is it a “Costco Keeper”? If you are a high-volume baker or you drink five cups of tea a day and just want a natural sweetener, the 3lb jug is an unbeatable value. At $8.99, you are getting a clean, safe, and reliable sweetener.
Is it “The Honey Review” Approved? No. If you are looking for the medicinal benefits, the local allergy relief, or the complex flavor of a true Texas varietal, this isn’t it. It is “store-bought” honey wearing a “beekeeper” costume.
For Baking: The Kirkland bottle is fine. The heat of your oven will kill any enzymes anyway, so don’t waste expensive raw honey on a loaf of bread.
For Your Personal “Lab”: Use the Kirkland bottle as your “Control Sample.” When you test a new honey with your Precision pH Meter, compare it to the Kirkland to see what “Commercial Standard” actually looks like.
FAQ: Kirkland Texas Honey
Why was Kirkland Local Honey pulled from shelves in 2022?
Costco conducted a voluntary audit and found that one of their regional suppliers couldn’t verify the origin of their batches. This shows that even the “Big Guys” struggle with honey fraud in the supply chain.
Can I use this for allergies?
Unlikely. Because the honey is regional and likely heat-treated, the specific local pollens you need are either missing or denatured.
Kirkland Texas Raw Unfiltered Honey
The Honey Review
Kirkland Texas Raw Unfiltered Honey Review/Analysis
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Quick Summary
I’ve used this for occasional recipes, because it’s 3 lbs for $8. It’s nothing special, and it’s definitely not unfiltered and raw. It may be local by State or worse Regions. Words sell however, and even knowing this isn’t what is being sold as, I’ve still bought it. I don’t recommend it for those looking for Local Honey.
They are rebranding Local Hive blends and its all-hogwash marketing as usual. Stop saying local when its inaccurate, as well as using raw and unfiltered like we slap gluten-free on everything. Avoid this Honey at Costco if you can.
