Honey labels can feel more puzzling than useful. You will encounter labels such as raw, pure, organic, and unfiltered. They might not always imply what you think. That is why we will explain what these words mean. This will help you pick something that would actually suit your use.

Here are the most common terms of the honey label that you will find in use.

“Pure Honey”

This is among the most used phrases on honey labels. It is also one of the most misinterpreted.

Pure honey means the product contains no added sweeteners, such as corn syrup. However, this does not indicate whether the honey is raw, unfiltered, local, or minimally processed. Even pure honey may be heated or filtered. It might even be combined from several sources.

This is a term that should be used as a benchmark. But not as a quality indicator. It informs you of what is not in the jar. Not how the honey was treated.

“Raw Honey”

Raw honey generally refers to the honey that has not been subjected to high temperatures following extraction. It is commonly strained without being ultra-filtered. Due to this fact, raw honey is rich in:

• Natural enzymes
• Pollen
• Trace nutrients.

On the other hand, heavy processing depletes these elements.

Nevertheless, in most regions, there is no single legal definition of what constitutes raw. Some manufacturers use the word loosely. If you are really looking for Honey For Sale, you should seek further information on the label or the brand’s site. Most reputable producers describe their process of honey extraction and bottling.

“Unfiltered” or “Unstrained”

These words mean that the honey has not undergone fine filtration. Therefore, you may find a few bits of:

• Wax
• Pollen
• Air bubbles.

The honey will be cloudy but not clear.

Unfiltered honey is thick. It is more likely to crystallize quickly. This is normal and does not indicate poor quality. Pay attention to these indicators if you prefer honey that is more natural in appearance and texture.

“Organic”

The term organic honey is more closely related to the management of bees and the environment. Certified organic honey is characterized by:

• Hives in pesticide-free areas.
• Organic handling during bottling and extraction.
• Approval by a recognized organic authority.

Bees forage over extensive areas. Therefore, organic honey certification is complicated and not always available, particularly for small-scale producers. When a label contains the word organic, it may be certified or just a descriptive word.

“Local Honey”

Local is a relative word. To some manufacturers, local may be within a state. To others, it can be a couple of hundred miles.

You might purchase local honey when you are interested in regional tastes, seasonal differences, or helping local beekeepers. Note that the term local is not regulated. If the location matters, check the city, state, or area written on the label.

Flower source labels

Some labels of honey indicate the main source of nectar. That provides you with an understanding of the taste.

• Clover honey tends to be mild and familiar.
• Wildflower honey is determined by the season and region.
• Single-source honeys are more aromatic. For example, the orange blossom.

The labels are not flavor additives. They are determined by the foraging location of the bees. Floral source may be one of the most helpful labels of information if you are concerned with taste.

“Raw and Unfiltered”

When you see these terms combined, they commonly imply little processing:

• No heat or low heat
• No fine filtration.

Such honey tends to be:

• More flavorful
• Richer in texture
• Noticeably different in different batches.

This label matters if you would like to have honey in a more natural form. However, read the details again. Check the producer’s website for more information.

Country of origin

This label provides you with more information on the origin of the honey in case transparency is important to you.

Single-origin means it is from one source. But blended honey is produced from different areas. It is mixed to create a uniform flavor and color.

If you care about the origin, look for expressions such as:

• Product of the USA
• A blend of U.S.
• Non-U.S. honeys
• A specific country name.

What labels do not necessarily say

The following are some of the key details that are not immediately apparent:

• Did the honey get heated, and to what temperature?
• How fine was the filtering?
• How old is the honey?

If you want more information, check brand descriptions and frequently asked questions. You can even communicate with the seller directly to find out.

The takeaway

When you are shopping for honey, you should consider how you will utilize it.

• Want to use it in baking and other recipes? Look for uniformity.
• Drizzling or salad dressing? Look for flavor and texture.

Labels are not everything. Beware of marketing jargon. You will be able to choose depending on use, taste, and preference.