If you’ve been wondering what the difference between raw and organic honey is, read on to learn more. Raw honey is unprocessed and contains enzymes and propolis. Organic honey is more refined, but still contains some of the same beneficial compounds as raw honey. If you’re confused about the difference between raw and organic honey, consider a few of the following:
Raw honey is unprocessed
If you want to enjoy the health benefits of raw honey, you need to know how to differentiate between commercial and raw varieties. Commercial honey is treated with heat to kill bacteria, while raw honey is not. It is naturally cloudy and may contain pollen or honeycomb. The color of raw honey is dependent on the flowers pollinated by bees. While the appearance of commercial honey is easier to handle, it lacks the nutrients and antioxidants found in raw honey.
It contains propolis
The healing properties of bee propolis have been known since the ancient times. Its antiseptic, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties have been isolated. Other health benefits of this honey include promoting the healing of wounds and sores and fighting eczema. Various studies have also shown that propolis has beneficial effects on the immune system. This honey contains a wealth of micronutrients, making it an excellent natural medicine.
It contains bee pollen
In 2015, the parents of a four-year-old boy named Zach started a business that sells raw honey that contains bee pollen. This raw honey has been left unfiltered and unheated, so it’s safe to eat, even if you suffer from allergies. Pollen is a microscopic particle deep within a flower. Removing it would leave the nectar below quality standards set by most food safety agencies. The European Commission and World Health Organization both have policies that state that honey that does not contain pollen cannot be considered legitimate.
It contains enzymes
A surprising number of enzymes are found in raw honey and organic honey, and these compounds can have a huge impact on your health. Enzymes are the proteins found inside living cells that facilitate the digestion and assimilation of food. The most studied enzymes are diastase and inverses, which are introduced into honey by bees. Diastase activity varies based on the age of the bees and the flow of nectar.
Natural sweetener
If you want to improve your health, consider switching to raw honey instead of refined sugar and artificial sweeteners. The average American consumes 150 pounds of processed sugar and 62 pounds of high fructose corn syrup every year, yet only eats 1.3 pounds of honey. Raw honey may be better for diabetics than refined sugar, but its still carbohydrates. People with diabetes should count their carbs. Buy raw honey and organic honey from the Mohawk Valley Trading Company.
Better for health
Some health-conscious Americans believe that raw honey is better for their bodies. That’s because the honey is extracted directly from the beehive, without any food processing. However, the benefits of eating raw honey are not universal. Pasteurization destroys many of the beneficial nutrients and antioxidants, making them less effective as a food. In fact, the American Heart Association recommends that people consume no more than nine teaspoons of added sugar per day.
It is better for the environment
While some may be skeptical about the environmental benefits of raw honey, it has many proven benefits for both people and the environment. The bees that produce raw honey aren’t as pollinated as organic honey, but the benefits still outweigh the negative impacts. Here are some of the main reasons to buy raw honey. Read on to find out more about the health benefits of raw honey. Then make the switch to a raw honey-only diet!
