Although ingredient lists may look more like science experiments than food, consumers are becoming more concerned about where and what their food is coming from. Many items are found naturally and without any alteration, which might surprise many of us. For mouth-watering results, honey, maple syrup, butter, olive oil, maple sugar, natural peanut butter and fresh-squeezed Orange juice require minimal to no modifications.
A 2006 consumer survey by the National Honey Board found that three percent of American households expected to find other ingredients in honey. This equates to over three million households believing that honey contains additives. What is the truth about honey? Why is it so sweet?
Surprisingly, it is easy to answer. Pure honey is only plant nectar from flowers that has been processed by honey bees’ enzymes. It is composed primarily of fructose glucose and water. It naturally contains trace enzymes and minerals, vitamins, and amino acid. Pure honey doesn’t need to be processed. It can literally travel from the hive, to your kitchen, and back again. Honey products must be labeled. It’s not pure if additional ingredients are added.
Local honey is a good choice for the environment, as honey is an all natural food. Local honey encourages sustainability through the growth of the local economy as well as reducing production waste. The popularity of farmer’s markets has increased in recent years. They offer an easy way for honey-buyers to buy local honey. The United States Department of Agriculture reports that the number of farmer’s markets has increased by almost 20% between 1994 and 2006. Many consumers like the idea of meeting and speaking directly with the person responsible for providing natural food.
Pure honey production has a very small environmental footprint. However, pollination is the direct cause of honey being consumed in one third of all bites. We would have a very limited supply of oranges, blueberries and strawberries if it wasn’t for honeybees. Almonds are dependent on honeybees for pollination.
Visit honey.com for more information on honey variety, food, and beauty recipe. Visit honeylocator.com to locate a honey that is produced locally or a specialty honey.
