FAQs

 

1. What is raw honey?

Raw honey is honey that comes straight from the hive — unheated, unpasteurized, and minimally processed. Unlike commercial honey that is filtered and pasteurized at high temperatures, raw honey retains its natural enzymes, antioxidants, pollen, and delicate flavors. This means it’s not only sweeter in taste, but also richer in nutritional value.

2. Why does raw honey sometimes crystallize?

Crystallization is a natural process! Raw honey contains natural sugars (glucose and fructose). Over time, the glucose tends to separate and form crystals, especially in cooler temperatures. This is a sign that the honey is pure and unprocessed. Crystallized honey is still perfectly good to eat — simply warm the jar in a bowl of hot (not boiling) water to return it to liquid form.

3. Is raw honey healthier than regular honey?

Yes. Raw honey is rich in natural enzymes, amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and trace minerals. Pasteurization (used in most supermarket honey) destroys many of these nutrients. Studies show raw honey has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it more beneficial for overall wellness.

4. Can honey help with allergies?

Many people believe that consuming small amounts of local raw honey may help reduce seasonal allergy symptoms. The theory is that honey contains tiny amounts of local pollen, which may help the body build a tolerance over time. While scientific evidence is mixed, countless customers swear by this natural approach.

5. Why are bees so important to our food system?

Bees are vital pollinators. In fact, one-third of the food we eat relies on pollination, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. By supporting local honey, you’re also supporting healthier bee populations and stronger ecosystems.

6. How should I store raw honey?

Store honey in a tightly sealed container at room temperature. Do not refrigerate honey — cold temperatures speed up crystallization. Honey is naturally resistant to spoilage because of its low water content and acidity. Archaeologists have even found edible honey in Egyptian tombs that’s thousands of years old!

7. Can raw honey go bad?

Pure raw honey never expires if stored properly. Its natural composition makes it antimicrobial and resistant to bacteria. Over time, honey may darken in color or crystallize, but it is still safe and delicious to eat.

8. What are the main health benefits of raw honey?

Raw honey is known for:

  • Antioxidants (supporting cell health)

  • Natural enzymes (aiding digestion)

  • Antimicrobial properties (soothing sore throats, minor wounds)

  • Trace minerals like zinc, potassium, and iron

  • Natural energy boost from easily digestible sugars

9. Is honey safe for children?

Honey is safe and beneficial for children over one year old. However, it should never be given to infants under 12 months because their digestive systems cannot handle the spores that may be present in raw honey.

10. Why does the flavor of honey change from season to season?

Honey reflects the nectar sources that bees forage on. Spring honey may be lighter and floral, while late-summer or fall honey may be darker, richer, and more robust in flavor. Each jar is truly a snapshot of the local blooms at that time.

11. What’s the difference between raw, pure, and organic honey?

  • Raw honey = unheated, unpasteurized, unfiltered.

  • Pure honey = 100% honey without added sugar or syrups (can still be pasteurized).

  • Organic honey = comes from hives where bees forage in pesticide-free areas (hard to certify locally).
    At Honey & Hives, our honey is raw and pure, sourced directly from our hives in Wading River, NY.

12. How do bees make honey?

Bees collect nectar from flowers using their proboscis (tongue) and store it in their honey stomach. Enzymes in the bee’s stomach break down the nectar into simple sugars. Back at the hive, worker bees pass the nectar to others, who fan it with their wings to evaporate moisture. Once thickened, the honey is stored in hexagonal wax cells and capped with beeswax — ready for harvest.

13. Why support local honey instead of buying at the supermarket?

Local honey is fresher, richer in nutrients, and supports sustainable beekeeping. Supermarket honey is often ultra-filtered, heated, and sometimes even blended with imported syrups. By choosing local raw honey, you’re supporting your health, your community, and your local ecosystem.

14. What is whipped honey?

Whipped honey (also called creamed honey or spun honey) is raw honey that has been carefully stirred to control crystallization. The result is a smooth, spreadable, butter-like texture that never drips or runs. Whipped honey tastes just as sweet as liquid honey, but its creamy consistency makes it perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, or biscuits. Importantly, whipped honey is not heated or altered — it’s still raw honey, just in a different texture.