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Raw honey has been used as a natural remedy for centuries. It’s packed with antioxidants and is believed to have numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation, healing wounds, and boosting the immune system. In this guide, we’ll share our top raw honey picks of 2024. Our list includes options for all budgets, from affordable supermarket brands to high-end, organic varieties. The Beekeeper's Naturals Raw Honey is top tier, an all-natural product of sweet goodness that is quality-tested and sustainably sourced. So, stick with us as we explore all of our honeyed and raw delights!

 

Finding the Best Raw Honey: A Buying Guide

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

One of the most important factors to consider is the honey’s source. Where was the honey 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 it 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. 

Certified Organic Label

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 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 used these products, which may give you a better idea about what type of raw honey suits your needs!

Top Picks

  • Best Overall: Beekeeper’S Naturals Raw Honey
  • Most Delicious: Nature Nate’S Raw Honey
  • Most Eco-Friendly: Bee Harmony Raw Honey
  • Most Nutritious: Aunt Sue’S Raw Honey
  • Best Value: Tjo Bees Raw Honey

Reviews

Best Overall
Beekeeper’s Naturals Raw Honey

Beekeeper’S Naturals Raw Honey

Pros Cons
  • Available in multiple tasty flavors
  • Completely natural and sustainably sourced
  • Third party-tested for quality
  • Difficult to spread
Most Delicious
Nature Nate’s Raw Honey

Nature Nate’S Raw Honey

Pros Cons
  • Smooth, sweet taste
  • Helps soothe stomach issues
  • Naturally sourced from South American rainforests
  • Bottle top may leak or become sticky 
Most Eco-Friendly
Bee Harmony Raw Honey

Bee Harmony Raw Honey

Pros Cons
  • Carefully sealed in clear glass jars
  • A healthy alternative to sugar
  • Available in four flavors
  • Honey can sometimes crystallize
Most Nutritious
Aunt Sue’s Raw Honey

Aunt Sue’S Raw Honey

Pros Cons
  • Unfiltered and minimally processed
  • Thick consistency gives a satisfying feeling
  • Strained to retain more pollen
  • Taste isn’t strong enough for some
Best Value
TJO Bees Raw Honey

Tjo Bees Raw Honey

Pros Cons
  • Can be heated for easy spreading/pouring 
  • Fragrant, clean flavor
  • Not filtered or strained
  •  Texture may be gritty

FAQs

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.
What are the benefits of consuming raw honey?
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. Additionally, consuming raw honey may improve your quality of sleep and reduce stress levels.
Is it safe for children and pregnant women to consume raw honey?
While raw honey is generally safe for most people, it's not recommended for children under 1 year old due to the risk of botulism. Pregnant women should also exercise caution, as there is a slight risk of contamination with bacteria like Clostridium botulinum. It's best to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming raw honey during pregnancy.
Does raw honey contain any allergens?
Raw honey can contain pollen and other potential allergens, which may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with pollen allergies. It's important for individuals with allergies to exercise caution when consuming raw honey and to consult with a healthcare professional if they have concerns.
Does raw honey need to be refrigerated?
Raw honey does not need to be refrigerated; it can be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration can cause honey to crystallize faster, but it doesn't spoil due to its natural antimicrobial properties.