Table of Contents
Manuka Honey for Bloating: The Ultimate Guide
Introduction
Raw honey has been used as a natural remedy for centuries. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals and is believed to have numerous health benefits, including reducing allergies, boosting the immune system, and preventing common colds and flu. But with so many types of honey on the market, it can be hard to know which kind to buy. In this post, we’ll share our top picks for the in-demand raw honey of 2023. Our list includes options for all budgets, from affordable supermarket brands to high-end, organic varieties. We’ll also give you a rundown of its health benefits and how to buy it, so you can make the ideal choice for your needs. Let’s get some honey!
How to Choose Raw Honey
If you’re looking for an alternative to sugar and artificial sweeteners that’s healthy, delicious, and natural, raw honey may be right for you. But, with so many varieties available, it can be a challenge for shoppers to determine which type is ideal for them. To make the selection process easier, this buyer’s guide will help you choose raw honey based on a variety of criteria, including source, taste, color, health benefits, purity, and more.
Source of the Honey
One of the most important factors to consider is where the honey was produced. Is it organic or conventionally grown? Organic honey is generally considered to have higher nutritional value since it is made without the use of pesticides and other chemicals. It is also thought to contain higher levels of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. Conversely, conventionally produced honey often contains trace amounts of pesticides and other pollutants due to its mass production methods. Depending on what you’re looking for in your honey experience — the cleanest ingredients or maximum flavor — you should select a source that most fits your needs.
Taste
Another essential element when selecting raw honey is taste. Different varieties have different flavor profiles ranging from mild to strong. Depending on your preference, you’ll want to look for honey that best suits your palate. Additionally, some raw honey has unique flavor notes, such as floral or fruitiness, that can make them stand out from other varieties.
Color
Raw honey’s color can greatly vary by variety and region. Generally speaking though, darker honey tends to have more intense flavors, while lighter-colored kinds of honey are milder. It’s important to consider color when selecting honey, as some might not look exactly like what you expect from the jar.
Packaging
Packaging plays a crucial role in preserving the quality and freshness of raw honey. Look for packaging that seals tight enough to prevent spoilage but still allows some air flow to keep the product fresh tasting. Some honey also comes in opaque containers, which helps protect against light deterioration.
Organic Certification
Many consumers opt for raw honey that has been certified organic by a reputable third-party agency to ensure it’s free from synthetic ingredients and potential environmental pollutants. If you’re electing to go this route, then make sure that the product clearly states its organic certification on the label.
Health Benefits
While all honey contains some level of natural health benefits, such as antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds, certain types may be richer in specific nutrients than others. For instance, Manuka honey and buckwheat honey are known for their unusually high antioxidant content, making them an attractive option for those looking for an extra health boost with their sweet treat.
Purity
Purity is another key component when selecting raw honey. Make sure that the product is free from any chemicals, additives, and preservatives, as these can diminish the overall health benefits of enjoying naturally produced sweeteners like raw honey. Many types are tested beforehand and will advertise their purity measurements on their label as well, so read closely before buying!
Allergens
It’s also important to take into consideration any potential allergens present, as some people may have sensitivities or allergies to ingredients included in certain varieties of honey. If you do have any allergies or sensitivities, make sure they are clearly identified on the label to avoid any potential reactions down the line.
Reviews
Lastly, don’t forget about checking reviews! People who have purchased various brands of raw honey before are usually willing to share their experiences online, so use those reviews as a valuable source of information before making your purchase. This way, you can get firsthand accounts from people who have actually used these products, which may give you a better idea about what type of raw honey suits your needs!
The Best Raw Honey Brands for 2023
Now that we’ve covered the factors to consider when choosing raw honey, let’s dive into our top picks for the in-demand raw honey of 2023. Keep in mind that our list includes options for all budgets, from affordable supermarket brands to high-end, organic varieties.
1. Best Overall: Nature’s Finest Raw Honey
Nature’s Finest Raw Honey is perfect for anyone that wants a true taste of nature. It’s harvested from remote apiaries in Ontario and carefully inspected by third-party laboratories. The honey is raw and wildcrafted, without any cutting with fructose, agave, or corn syrup, making it 100% pure and natural. Packed with lots of flower nectar and pollen, it is also naturally rich in nutrients and beneficial enzymes. Unlike others, this raw honey does not contain any pesticide residue or nasty chemicals, making it safe for everyone to enjoy. It is also gluten-free and paleo-friendly, meaning that it can be consumed by anyone looking for a healthy way to sweeten their meals. In addition to this, the manufacturer also practices sustainable beekeeping and focuses on the happiness and safety of their bees when collecting their honey. Because of its exceptional quality, delicious taste, and bee-friendly sourcing, we’ve chosen this raw honey as the best on our list.
-
Features:
- Available in multiple tasty flavors
- Completely natural and sustainably sourced
- Third party-tested for quality
- Difficult to spread
2. Most Delicious: Nature Nate’s Raw Honey
Nature Nate’s Raw Honey is a unique sweetener that offers sweet nutrition as nature intended. Whichever style you choose, it contains one ingredient: honey. Even better, this honey has been sourced from the protected rainforests of South America and is both USDA-certified organic and gluten-free. This ensures that it is of the highest quality and isn’t processed with any unnatural additives. It also has a rich taste profile, an appealing golden color, and a natural aroma, along with a wonderful velvety texture. This product is ideal for adding sweetness to food and drinks like granola, yogurts, coffee, and tea. In addition, it can also be used while cooking or baking as a healthy replacement for sugar. Best of all, the manufacturer works with beekeepers who have been family owned and operated for 40 years, so you know that the honey is being handled responsibly from start to finish. For those looking for a healthier alternative to artificial sweeteners or refined sugars, this raw honey is definitely worth considering.
-
Features:
- Smooth, sweet taste
- Helps soothe stomach issues
- Naturally sourced from South American rainforests
- Bottle top may leak or become sticky
3. Most Eco-friendly: Bee Harmony’s Raw Honey
Next up we have Bee Harmony’s Raw Honey, an all-American product that is sure to impress honey lovers everywhere. It contains natural pollen and enzymes and is packed and sealed with care in clear glass jars for maximum freshness and taste. Sourced from trusted select beekeepers who are committed to responsibly tending bees and respecting the environment, this honey is rated Grade A. The natural pollen in this honey helps boost energy levels and can aid digestion. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the body as well as improve overall mental clarity and well-being. Overall, this raw honey is an excellent choice for those looking for a refreshingly sweet flavor and natural health benefits. With its reliable taste, environmental consciousness, and responsible sourcing, it is sure to please anyone.
-
Features:
- Carefully sealed in clear glass jars
- A healthy alternative to sugar
- Available in four flavors
- Honey can sometimes crystallize
4. Most Nutritious: Aunt Sue’s Raw Honey
Aunt Sue’s Raw Honey is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a delicious and nutritious sweetener to their pantry. This high-quality honey is made by independent beekeepers with only the finest ingredients possible. It is minimally processed and each batch of honey goes through a rigorous testing process to ensure that it meets the highest standards. The honey itself is raw and unfiltered, meaning that more of the pollen pieces remain in the honey, creating a unique flavor profile that truly stands out. This also means this product retains many of its natural benefits, such as anti-allergenic qualities. On top of everything, you can also use this raw honey for a variety of recipes because it’s been specifically designed to combine well with different flavors. Whether you are cooking or baking, this honey can be used as a sweetener or taste enhancer. Most importantly, the honey’s quality is ensured by sampling, testing, and grading it for moisture, clarity, flavor, floral type, and color.
-
Features:
- Unfiltered and minimally processed
- Thick consistency gives a satisfying feeling
- Strained to retain more pollen
- Taste isn’t strong enough for some
5. Best Value: TJO Bees’ Raw Honey
Seeking the most value? Consider purchasing TJO Bees’ Raw Honey, which provides a great taste that is natural, pure, and unadulterated. Additionally, this pick contains honey from the primary nectar sources of sweet clover, alfalfa, and wildflower, which are all sourced from North Dakota. The raw and unfiltered nature of this honey preserves its texture and flavor while holding onto its vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants. This delightful raw honey has a unique flavor and aroma that makes it perfect for all kinds of dishes or even to be enjoyed straight out of the jar. Apart from its culinary uses, this honey is also great for skin care — its natural elements make it an excellent remedy for clearing up blemishes, reducing redness and inflammation, moisturizing dry skin, and combating wrinkles. Furthermore, this honey can be used as a natural cleansing agent for hair to provide nourishment and make it glossier.
-
Features:
- Can be heated for easy spreading/pouring
- Fragrant, clean flavor
- Not filtered or strained
- Texture may be gritty
FAQs about Raw Honey
What is raw honey?
Raw honey is honey that has been harvested directly from the beehive and has not been pasteurized, filtered, or processed in any way. This type of honey still contains all of the beneficial ingredients, such as enzymes, vitamins, and minerals, that have been naturally produced by bees. Raw honey is known to have natural healing properties and can help fight inflammation, allergies, and infections. It is also a natural energy booster and can help improve digestion and boost immunity.
Is it safe for children and pregnant women to consume raw honey?
Yes, it is safe for children and pregnant women to consume raw honey as long as it is pasteurized. That said, it is best for pregnant women to avoid raw honey during their first trimester of pregnancy due to the potential risk of being exposed to botulism spores.
Can some people be allergic to raw honey?
Yes, some people may be allergic to certain types of pollen that are present in raw honey. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider if you experience any adverse reactions after consuming raw honey.
Does raw honey need to be refrigerated?
No, raw honey does not need to be refrigerated unless you’d like it to remain solid at room temperature (in which case it should be stored in an airtight container). Otherwise, it’s best to store your jar of raw honey in a cool, dark cupboard away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as kitchen ovens or stoves.
Conclusion
Raw honey is a versatile and nutritious sweetener that offers numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking for the best overall raw honey, the most delicious option, the most eco-friendly choice, the most nutritious brand, or the best value for your money, there is a raw honey brand out there for you. Consider factors such as source, taste, color, packaging, organic certification, health benefits, purity, allergens, and reviews when making your decision. By choosing a high-quality raw honey, you can enjoy the natural flavors and benefits of this sweet treat.