We are often asked at the farmers' market why our honey is labeled "raw". What is raw honey? Why is it different than the honey that is purchased in the supermarkets? So, let's compare raw honey versus processed, store-bought honey.
Quite simply, raw honey is honey that is extracted and bottled at a temperature no higher than the maximum temperature of the hive. Raw honey is a natural superfood. It contains beneficial pollen, nutrients and enzymes.
Our raw honey is extracted in a state health department inspected facility. We screen the freshly extracted honey through a dual screen that includes both a coarse and a fine screen. This simple screening procedure removes unwanted debris and pieces of wax bust none of the desirable and beneficial particles of pollen.
On the other hand, processed honey that can be purchased at supermarkets is ultra-filtered to remove bee pollen while heating to temperatures exceeding 140 degrees. At this temperature it can be considered pasteurized. This extreme heat makes the honey very liquid and allows for rapid bottling, but is also changes the honey's molecular structure to cause it remain a liquid permanently. It also, however, kills the beneficial enzymes and removes all nutritional benefits.
So is one form of honey better than the other? That depends on the needs of the consumer. Raw honey is filled with health benefits. It can be traced to its origins. But mostly it tastes DELICIOUS! On the contrary, processed, store-bought honey is less costly and will not crystallize. Why do you prefer our honey?
