Pure honey, by definition, is 100% honey. This means it contains only honey and no other added ingredients such as corn syrup, sugar, or other sweeteners. However, the term "pure" doesn't necessarily mean "raw."
Understanding the Differences: Raw vs. Pure Honey
- Pure Honey: Guaranteed to be 100% honey. It may undergo pasteurization (heating to kill bacteria), which alters some of its natural properties and enzymes. This process extends its shelf life. Examples include many commercially available brands which state clearly they are "100% pure honey." [See Nature Nate's, Full Circle Market examples in references].
- Raw Honey: This honey is unheated and unfiltered, retaining its natural enzymes, pollen, and other components. While raw honey is typically 100% honey, the lack of filtering can mean it contains small amounts of pollen, bee parts, or other natural impurities. [See ScottishBeeCompany and BigIslandBees references].
Many brands label their honey as both "raw" and "100% pure." This signifies both its unprocessed state and the absence of added ingredients. [See Nature Nate's reference].
The Importance of Labels and Sourcing
It's crucial to carefully examine honey labels. While many brands advertise "100% pure honey," it's not always a guarantee of quality or origin. Some inexpensive honey, particularly from certain regions, might be blended with other sweeteners, though the label may still claim "100% pure honey." [See The Guardian's reference regarding inexpensive honey].
Some "purity tests" promoted online are unreliable, unable to distinguish between high quality pure honey and adulterated honey. [See Reddit Beekeeping Reference]. Therefore, choosing reputable brands and prioritizing raw honey when possible ensures higher quality and nutritional value.
In Summary
The answer to "What honey is 100% honey?" is pure honey. However, understanding the difference between pure and raw honey provides consumers with a clearer understanding of honey's properties and quality.
