The Real Benefits of Eating Manuka Honey

When it comes to so-called superfoods, few have captured attention in recent years quite like Manuka honey. 

Produced in New Zealand and parts of Australia from the nectar of the Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium), this golden nectar is celebrated for its unique taste, thickness, and—most importantly—its powerful health properties. 

But what makes Manuka honey different from the jar of everyday honey in your cupboard, and what are the real benefits of adding it to your diet?

1. Natural Antibacterial Properties

The main reason Manuka honey is prized above regular honey is due to its methylglyoxal (MGO) content, a naturally occurring compound with strong antibacterial effects. The higher the MGO rating (usually labelled as UMF or Unique Manuka Factor), the stronger the honey’s antibacterial activity. This makes it more than just a sweetener—it’s a natural remedy often used to support immune health.

2. Soothes Sore Throats and Coughs

Manuka honey has been traditionally used to relieve sore throats and calm persistent coughs. Its thick consistency coats the throat, while its antibacterial properties help fight the infection at the source. Many people find it more soothing and effective than shop-bought cough syrups.

3. Digestive Health Support

Manuka honey is thought to promote a healthy gut. Research suggests it may help balance good bacteria, ease symptoms of indigestion, and even reduce irritation from conditions such as acid reflux or gastritis. It’s often recommended in small daily servings to gently support digestive wellbeing.

4. A Natural Energy Booster

Unlike refined sugar, Manuka honey provides a slow-release energy source. It contains natural sugars, trace vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants that can give you a gentle energy lift without the sharp spikes and crashes associated with processed sweeteners. It’s popular with athletes as a natural pre- or post-workout fuel.

5. Skin and Wound Healing Benefits

Although this benefit is more topical than dietary, it’s worth noting. Manuka honey has been widely studied for its role in wound healing and skin repair. 

Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for treating burns, cuts, and acne when applied directly to the skin. Eating Manuka honey also contributes to healthier skin from within, thanks to its antioxidant content.

6. Supports Oral Health

Interestingly, eating small amounts of high-grade Manuka honey may even benefit your mouth. Its antibacterial action can reduce the growth of harmful oral bacteria responsible for gum disease and tooth decay—without harming the good bacteria that keep your mouth balanced.

How to Enjoy Manuka Honey

Take a spoonful straight from the jar for an immune-boosting daily ritual.

Stir into warm (not boiling) water with lemon to soothe your throat.

Add to yoghurt, porridge, or smoothies for a sweet yet nourishing twist.

Use sparingly in baking or cooking where you want natural sweetness with added benefits.

A Note of Caution

Manuka honey is not suitable for children under 12 months, and those with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels when consuming it. As it’s often more expensive than regular honey, it’s best to buy from trusted suppliers and look for certified UMF or MGO ratings to ensure authenticity.

Final Thoughts

Manuka honey isn’t a miracle cure, but it is a powerful natural food with genuine health benefits. From supporting immunity and gut health to soothing sore throats and giving you a natural energy boost, it’s a versatile addition to your diet. 

If you’re looking for a way to combine a little indulgence with real nutritional value, a jar of Manuka honey might just be worth the investment.

Rich Notes of Treacle: Black Bee Honey's Autumn Honey

Black Bee Honey's award-winning 100% natural  British Autumn Heather Honey (227g, £8.50 or 1kg tub, £34.95) is a bold, aromatic British honey with a decadently thick texture and rich notes of treacle.

Known as the British Manuka, this dark coloured honey is sourced from hives placed on the moors of North Yorkshire and Scotland in late summer, where bees forage on blooming Ling Heather throughout August. 

The result is a distinctive, robust honey with a silky, spreadable consistency that's as perfect on a crumpet as it is added to recipes for Autumn Fruit & Honey Galette and Warm Honey Spiced Apple & Blackberry Punch (recipes below and linked here).

Black Bee Honey is a B Corp certified British beekeeper collective founded by beekeepers Paul Webb and Chris Barnes who met in an office 20 years ago but left their design jobs for the rooftops and gardens of London where they cared for over a million bees and went on to establish Black Bee Honey.

Their range of award-winning 'flower to jar' seasonal honey is produced throughout the year, with each honey reflecting the flavours of its season. Their honeys are never blended and are fully traceable, with the name of the beekeeper printed on every jar's label. 

Black Bee Honey also donates 2% of its turnover to the charity Plantlife which goes towards the creation of wildflower meadows, so by purchasing any of their honey you'll be helping bees and other pollinators.

Black Bee Honey is available to buy at www.blackbeehoney.com. Keep updated with Black Bee Honey via @blackbeehoneycompany (Instagram) and @blackbeehoney (X), or visit www.blackbeehoney.com

“Miracle” Honey for Hay Fever Goes Viral as UK Suffers Worst Pollen Season Yet - Latin Honey Shop

Shoppers Pay Up to £200 for Jar of Rare Mexican Honey with Natural Anti-Allergy Effect

As Britain battles one of the worst grass pollen hay fever seasons in recent years, a rare raw honey from the Sierra Madre mountains of Mexico has gone viral, with desperate hay fever sufferers hailing it as a “miracle cure” and paying up to £200 per jar for it at auction after stock ran out.

The honey in question? Raw Organic Red Gumbo Limbo Honey, imported exclusively by the Latin Honey Shop, a boutique London-based brand known for its rare, certified organic,  medicinal honeys.

Unlike the debunked myth around local honey for hay fever, which doesn’t work because bees don’t feed on grass pollen, this exotic Mexican honey appears to have a natural anti-allergy, antihistamine-like effect. It’s produced by bees that feed on the red gumbo limbo tree (Bursera simaruba), long used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating properties.

“Every year we get customers telling us this is the only thing that works for their hay fever,” said a spokesperson for the Latin Honey Shop. “It doesn’t just soothe symptoms — people are reporting full relief within days.”

Earlier this month, demand exploded after multiple TikTok influencers, including @iKaiser19, posted viral reviews praising the honey’s hay fever relief powers. His 2023 video alone has racked up over 1.3 million views Watch: https://www.tiktok.com/@ikaiser19/video/7239010011605634330. Dozens of creators have since joined in, flooding the platform with testimonials and creating a surge in demand as a search on TikTok for "Red Gumbo Limbo Honey" reveals.

Over 2000 jars of Red Gumbo Limbo Honey have been sold on TikTok alone, making it one of the most popular honeys there.

"I've been suffering from hay fever for the past 21yrs," wrote one verified buyer of this honey. "Since having this honey 1.5months I've been clear of any signs of fever."

With jars retailing for up to £20 including delivery, the limited seasonal stock typically sells out within days. In 2022, once supplies ran out, desperate buyers paid up to £200 a jar in auction.

The Latin Honey Shop first discovered the honey in 2016 and has since made small yearly batches available to UK and international customers. It is harvested once every year by traditional beekeepers in remote parts of Mexico and is never heat-treated or blended, preserving its medicinal-grade quality.

As hay fever allergy sufferers continue to seek relief in a season where traditional remedies are falling short, this rare raw honey has become one of the most talked-about natural alternatives of 2025.

Importer: Latin Honey Shop (https://latinhoneyshop.com)

The Buzz About Fake Honey: How to Spot the Real Deal

Honey has long been revered as a golden, natural gift—drizzled on toast, stirred into tea, or used in skincare and home remedies. 

But beneath the golden glow lies a growing problem that many consumers are unaware of: fake honey.

Supermarket shelves are increasingly stocked with adulterated honey products—some watered down with sugar syrups, others containing little to no real honey at all. So how can you tell what’s real and what’s not? Let’s take a look.

What Is Fake Honey?

Fake honey (or adulterated honey) is typically diluted with substances like:

Glucose syrup

High fructose corn syrup

Rice or beet syrup

In some cases, flavourings and colourants

It’s often done to cut costs and boost profits while making the product look and taste like genuine honey.

Why It’s a Problem

Deceptive labelling – Some products labelled as "pure honey" may contain undeclared additives.

Nutritional loss – Real honey is packed with antioxidants, enzymes, and trace minerals. Adulterated versions lack these benefits.

Damage to beekeepers – Honest beekeepers struggle to compete with cheap, fake imports.

Consumer trust – Food fraud erodes confidence in natural, healthy products.

How to Identify Fake Honey

While lab tests are the only definitive way to confirm purity, here are a few tricks consumers can use at home or when shopping:

Check the Label

Look for “100% raw honey” or “unfiltered honey.”

Avoid products listing glucose, fructose, or “honey blend” in the ingredients.

Country of origin: Some imported honey has been flagged for fraud—check where it comes from.

The Spoon Test

Dip a spoon into the honey and let it fall back into the jar. Real honey:

Falls in a thick stream

Doesn’t splatter or run like water

Settles into itself without separating

The Water Test

Drop a spoonful of honey into a glass of cold water:

Fake honey dissolves or disperses quickly

Real honey settles at the bottom in a blob

The Flame Test (use caution!)

Dip a cotton bud in the honey and try lighting it with a lighter:

Real honey may burn slightly

Adulterated honey often won’t ignite due to water content

Support Local Beekeepers

The best way to ensure you're buying authentic honey is to purchase from:

Local farmers’ markets

Beekeepers’ stalls

British honey producers with traceable, transparent supply chains

What’s Being Done?

Some UK supermarkets have pledged to improve their sourcing, and trading standards have begun cracking down on fraudulent imports. However, testing can be costly, and loopholes still exist.

As awareness grows, more consumers are demanding transparency—which is good news for ethical producers and honey-loving households alike.

Final Drizzle

If you’re serious about honey, don’t be fooled by a pretty label or a rock-bottom price. Knowing how to spot fake honey empowers you to make better, more sustainable choices.

Because when it comes to honey, you deserve the real thing.

Lynne Ingram, Chair of the Honey Authenticity Network UK, an international organisation fighting 'Fake honey' to help honey producers, consumers and bees told That's Food and Drink: “UK consumers have the right to make informed choices when purchasing honey. If a product is labelled as honey, it must be exactly that—genuine honey, naturally collected and ripened by bees.

" It should not be a factory-processed product, artificially dried or containing added syrups. Transparency is also essential when it comes to labelling. Vague statements like 'a blend of EU and non-EU honeys' are unhelpful and misleading. Consumers deserve clear information about the true country of origin. 

"We are calling on the authorities to take urgent action to stop the influx of cheap, adulterated honey into the UK. This includes robust testing and strong enforcement to protect both consumers and honest producers.”

Black Bee Honey's range of award-winning 100% British 'flower to jar' honeys are single source with the location and name of the beekeeper printed on every jar, so it's fully traceable.  Since 2020 they have been donating 2% of its turnover to the charity Plantlife for the creation of wildflower meadows, and so far have helped create over 25 acres of meadows. This work has enabled them to establish a circular business model where every jar bought creates wildflower meadows, which in turn helps bees to create honey. 

Black Bee Honey is currently listed with Ocado, Holland & Barrett, Abel & Cole and Harrods.  Their honeys are also available online at blackbeehoney.com.

A Taste of Summer: Black Bee Honey's British Summer Honey

For a super taste of summer in a jar, try Black Bee Honey's award-winning British Summer Honey (227g, £6.95 or 1kg tub, £28.50), a multi-floral honey that's sourced during the summer months from apiaries in Somerset, Northamptonshire and Yorkshire. 

Created from a mix of wildflowers, this light golden runny honey has a heady floral flavour and is delicious added to salad dressings, stirred into a hot drink or drizzled on your breakfast, and also features in Black Bee Honey's summer recipes; Summer Vegetable Tacos with Honeyed Apricot Salsa and their Peach and Raspberry Cooler.

Black Bee Honey is a B Corp certified British beekeeper collective founded by beekeepers Paul Webb and Chris Barnes who met in an office 20 years ago but left their design jobs for the rooftops and gardens of London where they cared for over a million bees and went on to establish Black Bee Honey.

Their range of award-winning 'flower to jar' seasonal 100% British honey is produced throughout the year, with each honey reflecting the flavours of its season. All their honeys are fully traceable, with the name of the beekeeper printed on every jar's label. Black Bee Honey also donates 2% of its turnover to the charity Plantlife which goes towards the creation of wildflower meadows, so by purchasing any of their honey you'll be helping bees and other pollinators.

Black Bee Honey is available to buy at www.blackbeehoney.com. Keep updated with Black Bee Honey via @blackbeehoneycompany (Instagram) and @blackbeehoney (X), or visit www.blackbeehoney.com

The Best Selling Honey That's a Perfect Gift for Chilli Loving Dads: Black Bee Honey's Hot Honey

Black Bee Honey's utterly delicious Hot Honey (£7.95, 227g) is the perfect gift for any chilli loving dads this Father's Day. 

British beekeeping collective and certified B Corp, Black Bee Honey has created a new recipe for their chilli honey, combining red habaneros with British wildflower Summer honey. 

It has a medium heat level, and is great drizzled onto pizza or fried chicken and equally awesome as a marinade, dressing or even with ice cream!

Black Bee Honey's range of award-winning 'flower to jar' 100% British honey is produced throughout the year and is carbon neutral. 

Their 'Meadow Mission' sees 2% of its turnover donated to the charity Plantlife, which goes towards the creation of wildflower meadows that are vital habitats, so by purchasing any of their honey, you'll be helping bees and other pollinators.

Black Bee Honey's Hot Honey is available to buy at www.blackbeehoney.com. Keep updated with Black Bee Honey via @blackbeehoneycompany (Instagram) and @blackbeehoney (X), or visit www.blackbeehoney.com

Black Bee Honey Introduce Limited Edition Gift Pack for World Bee Day

More news on World Bee Day and Black Bee Honey.

World Bee Day on 20th May, today, is a day designated by the UN to raise awareness about the importance of protecting bees and other pollinators and British beekeeper collective Black Bee Honey continues its commitment to supporting bees through its work with conservation charity Plantlife, whose patron is HM King Charles III.

So far the B-corp Somerset-based company, who have donated 2% of their annual turnover to Plantlife since 2020, have helped create over 30 acres of wild meadows for bees and other pollinators. 

Black Bee Honey's co-founders Chris Barnes and Paul Webb were absolutely gutted to learn of the loss of 98% of wildflower meadows across the UK since the 1930s. 

Meadows like those they are helping to establish are a vital habitat for pollinators, as well as being effective in sequestering carbon. 

As beekeepers, they understand the importance of reinstating this habitat and have made it integral to Black Bee Honey's mission. Their work with Plantlife has also enabled them to develop a circular business model where every jar bought creates wildflower meadows, which in turn helps bees create honey. 

Paul told That's Food and Drink: “Our 2% for pollinators commitment has already enabled us to have a significant, positive impact on biodiversity. It's one of our proudest achievements since founding the company.

"We believe that all businesses should strive to create positive change rather than exist purely for profit through extraction. As we grow, our positive impact on the environment will also increase.”

To celebrate World Bee Day, Black Bee Honey has joined forces with fellow pollinator champions Kabloom to launch a limited-edition collaborative gift bundle. 

Priced at £30 with free shipping within the UK, The World Bee Day Bundle includes Black Bee Honey's 4 Seasons Mini Honey Jar Gift Box, a recipe card for inspiration and Kabloom's Birds, Bees & Butterflies Seedbom Gift Box, and is available from www.blackbeehoney.com. 

100% of proceeds from every Seedbom gift box sold as part of this bundle will go directly to Wild Britain®, Kabloom's rewilding initiative that invests in restoring land across the whole of the UK. 

Black Bee Honey's co-founder Chris Barnes commented: “Collaborating with Kabloom on this special World Bee Day bundle feels like a totally natural fit. It's a brilliant way to celebrate and support pollinators from seed to spoon.”

Olly Tyler, who is Kabloom's MD, adds: “We're really pleased and proud to align ourselves with such a likeminded brand to amplify the buzz around World Bee Day.  All of the proceeds from every Seedbom gift box sold as part of this offer will go directly to Wild Britain®, our rewilding initiative that invests in restoring land across the UK.”

Wildly British: a taste of Black Bee Honey

The Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter honey is also available in a gift box or you can enjoy some of the Black Bee Honey range in a three, six or 12 month subscription.

Spring

A creamy, soft set honey foraged from rapeseed, hawthorn and plum blossom in Somerset, Yorkshire and Northamptonshire, with a light, sweet flavour.

Summer

Summer in a jar, this multi-floral variety is sourced during summer from apiaries in Somerset, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and Hertfordshire. It's created from a mix of wildflowers and has a rich floral flavour.

Autumn 

A bold, dark and aromatic honey with a thick texture and notes of treacle. It's sourced from apiaries in North Yorkshire and Scotland whose bees are taken onto the moors in August when the Ling Heather is in bloom.

Winter 

A fresh, herbal honey with light menthol flavours and a sweet, ripe finish. Sourced from Hampshire where the bees mainly forage on ivy during early winter, it has a set, crumbly texture.

Pollen 

This enriched version of Black Bee Honey's Spring honey has a depth of flavour due to the addition of pollen granules collected by bees throughout spring and summer.

Starflower

Pure British Borage honey, also known as Starflower, this limited release honey is sourced from apiaries in Lincolnshire, Northants and Hertfordshire, and has a delicate, sweet and subtly floral taste.

Seaside

A rare honey variety from hives located on North Norfolk's salt marshes with an incredible and complex salted caramel flavour.

Winter Seaside 

This honey comes from hives on North Norfolk's salt marshes where bees forage on ivy and sea lavender, producing fresh, herbal notes and a salty caramel finish.

Black Bee Honey is available to buy at www.blackbeehoney.com. Keep updated with Black Bee Honey via @blackbeehoneycompany (Instagram) and @blackbeehoney (X)

Is the Honey You are Buying Fake? Black Bee Honey Calls for Urgent Government Action

That's Food and Drink has already recently posted about World Bee Day. But we have received some news that has genuinely disturbed us.

Because as World Bee Day approaches, on the 20th May, award-winning B Corp certified British beekeeper collective Black Bee Honey is on a mission to highlight the fact that fake honey being sold to shoppers in UK supermarkets by campaigning for more independent testing to be performed on imported honey.

Around half a million tons of honey are sold in the UK every year but its quality and its environmental impact is poor. 

Most of the honey on offer in our supermarkets is imported, with its origin often listed as “a blend of EU and non-EU honey”.  Many consumers believe the honey they're buying is 100% pure when it's actually a mix of imported blended honey.

Black Bee Honey was founded in 2010 by beekeepers Paul Webb and Chris Barnes who met in a design office 20 years ago. Their passion for bees and honey began with hives in their own back gardens and they soon discovered how delicious honey tasted straight from the hive - worlds apart from the imported honey found on supermarket shelves. Inspired, they soon left their design jobs for the rooftops and gardens of London where they cared for over a million bees and established Black Bee Honey.  

Co-founder Paul Webb told That's Food and Drink: “Adulterated or fake honey being imported into the UK has been happening for many years but it's only now coming to light. 

"It's had a massive, negative impact on UK honey producers, artificially lowering the price expectation of a very special product which takes a huge amount of time and energy to produce by bees and beekeepers. The public have been unwittingly eating sugar syrup when they think they're eating real honey which devalues the real thing further due to lack of flavour and it's also a health concern."

Pauyl went on to tell us: "We're asking for more independent testing on honey to begin to reverse the trend towards more and more cheap, fake honey and to get quality British honey back on the supermarket shelves. That's why Black Bee Honey was founded and why we'll continue to fight for British Beekeepers, their bees and the great honey they produce”.

Lynne Ingram, Chair of the Honey Authenticity Network UK, an international organisation fighting 'Fake honey' to help honey producers, consumers and bees added: “UK consumers have the right to make informed choices when purchasing honey. 

"If a product is labelled as honey, it must be exactly that, real, genuine honey, naturally collected and ripened by bees. It should not be a factory-processed product, artificially dried or containing added syrups. 

"Transparency is also essential when it comes to labelling. Vague statements like 'a blend of EU and non-EU honeys' are unhelpful and potentially misleading. Consumers deserve clear information about the true country of origin. We are calling on the authorities to take urgent action to stop the influx of cheap, adulterated honey into the UK. This includes robust testing and strong enforcement to protect both consumers and honest producers.”

Black Bee Honey's range of award-winning 100% British 'flower to jar' honeys are single source with the location and name of the beekeeper printed on every jar, so it's fully traceable.  

"Since 2020 they have been donating 2% of their turnover to the charity Plantlife for the creation of wildflower meadows, and so far have helped create over 25 acres of meadows. This work has enabled them to establish a circular business model where every jar bought creates wildflower meadows, which in turn helps bees to create honey. 

Black Bee Honey is currently listed with Ocado, Holland & Barrett, Abel & Cole and Harrods.  Their honeys are also available online at blackbeehoney.com

That's Food and Drink will be looking out for Black Bee Honey the next time we have a Holland and Barrett visit planned!

Here is the link to our previous coverage of World Bee Day https://thatsfoodanddrink.blogspot.com/2024/05/the-buzz-about-world-bee-day-vital-for.html

The All Natural, Non Alcoholic Honey Wine That's a Refreshingly Different Summer Sipper

As the buzz around mindful drinking continues to rise, Bemuse offers an intriguingly different choice for health-conscious drinkers looking to soak up the summer without the compromising effects of an alcoholic drink. 

Blended using only a handful of nature's own ingredients — Bemuse has a base of raw (British) honey, fermented with yeast and water and then infused with a diverse array of all natural botanicals and flavourings. 

It's a refreshing choice for consumers who are following a clean diet, in an era when the benefits of avoiding ultra-processed foods are recognised and transparency around ingredients used has become an expected norm. 

These drinks are lightly effervescent and bone dry; offering a curious surprise to those expecting sweetness from a honey-based drink. The natural fermentation process creates a bright acidity, alongside a subtle earthiness that's more akin to a naturally sparkling wine than anything sugary or soft.

Co-founder Anna Chalov explains the intriguingly different taste: “Customers are often surprised to discover that our drinks are dry, and even a little tangy — with an acidic edge. It's that acidity that gives Bemuse its grown-up profile and the complexity to serve with food, offering a real alternative to an alcoholic drink.” 

As well as pairing beautifully with food, Bemuse's acidity also makes for a versatile cocktail base — lending structure and balance to low-ABV creations as well as alcoholic serves. Indeed, these drinks have captured the attention of mixologists at prestigious hospitality venues the Sheraton Grand hotel (Mayfair), Dalloway Terrace and The Coral Room at the Bloomsbury Hotel, amongst others. 

Adding further appeal, Bemuse's acidic nature makes it a brilliant replacement for fresh citrus in cocktails; reducing food waste and the need for fruits that can often go unused.

Bemuse is available in four flavour-forward, multi-award winning blends:  

● Origo — spring wildflower honey blended with citra and ekuanot hops; zesty, sharp and aromatic 

● Pomona — apple blossom honey infused with cardamom and ginger; dry with a lively, citrusy tang 

● Calluna — raw heather honey with tarragon and Thai basil; earthy and herbaceous 

● Fiora — rosé blend of English meadow borage honey with wild raspberry; delicately floral and refreshingly crisp.

Anna, who is something of a nature lover, told That's Food and Drink: "We wanted to create drinks that were kind to the body, and kind to the planet too. Honey-based drinks have a lower environmental footprint than more 'traditional' wines, requiring no additional irrigation or pesticides. Bees are a vital part of the biodiversity underpinning the entire food chain, and by investing in honey cultivation we can also play a role in helping to boost the dwindling bee population.” 

There's little doubt that these drinks have nature at their beating heart. So as we head into the season of bank holidays, BBQs, staycations and summer parties — consumers can savour every sip in the knowledge that the contents of their glass are delicious, guilt-free and planet friendly too. Surely that makes for a refreshingly different choice this summer?

bemusedrinks.com

Sweet Celebrations: How to Celebrate World Bee Day with Honey-Inspired Dishes and Bee-Friendly Actions

World Bee Day, celebrated every year on 20th May, is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a crucial reminder of the vital role bees play in our ecosystem. 

Bees are responsible for pollinating over 75% of the crops we eat, yet their populations are in decline due to habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change.

This World Bee Day, let’s show our appreciation with a twofold approach: cooking with nature’s golden treasure—honey—and taking simple but meaningful actions to help save our buzzing friends.

Celebrate with Honey-Inspired Dishes

Honey is a natural sweetener packed with flavour and history, with each variety reflecting the flowers visited by the bees. Here are a few delicious ways to make honey the star of your World Bee Day menu:

1. Honey-Glazed Roast Vegetables

Give your Sunday roast a floral twist. Toss carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes in a glaze made from local honey, olive oil, and a touch of mustard before roasting.

2. Lemon and Honey Chicken

A classic pairing—roast chicken drizzled with a lemon, garlic, and honey glaze for a sticky, tangy finish. Perfect for a light spring supper.

3. Honey and Yoghurt Panna Cotta

Swap out sugar for honey in this creamy dessert. Use wildflower honey to complement the richness of the panna cotta, and top with bee-friendly edible flowers like violets or calendula.

4. Breakfast Boost: Honey Porridge or Granola

Drizzle a spoonful of honey over warm porridge or mix it into homemade granola with oats, nuts, and dried fruit for a nourishing start to your day.

5. Baked Brie with Honey and Thyme

A crowd-pleasing appetiser: bake a wheel of Brie and top it with warm honey, fresh thyme, and chopped walnuts. Serve with crusty bread or crackers.

Top Tip: Always try to use local, raw honey. Not only does it support local beekeepers, but it’s also likely to contain beneficial enzymes and pollen.

How You Can Help Save the Bees

It doesn’t take much to make a big difference. Here are some bee-friendly actions you can start today:

Plant Bee-Friendly Flowers

Bees need nectar and pollen-rich plants to thrive. Grow varieties like lavender, foxglove, borage, and wild marjoram. Try planting a small wildflower patch or even a window box—every little helps.

Avoid Pesticides

Chemicals in pesticides and herbicides can be deadly to bees. Opt for organic gardening methods and encourage natural pest control like ladybirds and lacewings.

Create a Bee Hotel

Solitary bees like mason bees need places to nest. A bee hotel made from hollow stems or drilled wood is a great addition to any garden or balcony.

Leave Out Water

Bees need water, especially in hot weather. Place a shallow dish filled with water and pebbles for them to safely land and drink.

Support Local Beekeepers and Conservation Groups

Buy honey from local sources, support bee charities like the Bee Friendly Trust or the British Beekeepers Association, and raise awareness about bee protection on social media.

Bee the Change

World Bee Day is the perfect opportunity to blend pleasure with purpose. Whether you're baking with honey, planting wildflowers, or skipping the pesticides, every small action helps secure the future of bees—and our food system.

So grab a spoonful of honey, share a recipe, plant a flower, and help spread the buzz!

Welsh Honey Cake — Sweetness from the Valleys

Golden, moist, and fragrant, Welsh Honey Cake is a time-honoured treat that reflects the natural bounty of the land.

Honey has long been treasured in Welsh cooking — not only as a sweetener, but as a symbol of healing, hospitality, and rural abundance.

This simple yet elegant cake offers a warm, spiced sweetness that’s perfect with an afternoon cup of tea or served as a rustic dessert. It's a beautiful way to honour the landscape and traditions of the Welsh valleys.

A Slice of Nature

Wales is home to lush pastures, wildflowers, and thriving native bees. In regions like Monmouthshire, Carmarthenshire, and the Brecon Beacons, beekeeping has been practised for centuries.

Welsh honey is prized for its depth of flavour — ranging from light floral notes to dark, rich heather honey. This cake is a celebration of that tradition.

Regional Twists

South Wales (Valleys & Carmarthenshire)

Often includes mixed spice and a touch of orange zest.

Topped with a simple honey glaze.

North Wales (Conwy, Snowdonia)

Uses heather honey for a stronger, darker flavour.

May include ground almonds or a splash of whisky. Welsh whisky is best, obviously!

Contemporary Versions

Served with clotted cream or honeyed mascarpone.

Infused with lavender or lemon thyme for an intriguing floral note.

Traditional Welsh Honey Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

150g unsalted butter

150g Welsh honey (plus 2 tbsp extra for glazing)

75g light brown sugar

2 large eggs

200g self-raising flour

1 tsp mixed spice

Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Pinch of salt

Method:

Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) / 320°F / Gas Mark 3. Grease and line a 1lb loaf tin.

In a saucepan, melt the butter, honey, and sugar over low heat. Let it cool for 5 minutes.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the orange zest (if using).

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and mixed spice.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth.

Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.

While still warm, brush the top with the extra honey for a sticky, glossy finish.

Allow to cool before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect with a cup of Welsh breakfast tea.

Add a dollop of whipped cream or yoghurt for a dessert-style finish.

Keeps well and even improves after a day or two, making it great for gifting.

Welsh Honey Cake: Sweetness with Soul

Whether you're using wildflower honey from a local market or a treasured jar from a family beekeeper, this cake is a delicious way to connect with Welsh landscapes and heritage.

Simple, satisfying, and full of warmth — a true gem of the valleys.

Coming next: Crempog — The Welsh Pancake Tradition

The Proven Health Benefits of Genuine New Zealand Manuka Honey

Manuka honey, native to New Zealand, has gained a global reputation for its exceptional health benefits. 

Unlike regular honey, Manuka is produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium), a plant indigenous to New Zealand. What makes this honey unique is its high concentration of natural compounds with potent medicinal properties. 

Genuine New Zealand Manuka honey has been the subject of numerous studies, proving its efficacy in treating various health conditions and promoting overall well-being.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key health benefits of Manuka honey, why it stands out among other types of honey, and how incorporating it into your daily routine can enhance your health.

What Makes Manuka Honey Special?

The health benefits of Manuka honey are primarily attributed to its high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound that gives Manuka its powerful antibacterial properties. MGO is found in higher concentrations in Manuka honey compared to other types, making it far more effective in fighting bacteria and promoting healing.

To ensure consumers are getting the real deal, Manuka honey is graded using the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF). This system measures the concentration of MGO and other key compounds like dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and leptosperin. The higher the UMF rating, the more potent the honey’s therapeutic properties.

The Proven Health Benefits of Manuka Honey

1. Potent Antibacterial Properties

One of the most well-documented benefits of Manuka honey is its ability to combat harmful bacteria. Thanks to its high MGO content, Manuka honey has been shown to be effective against a wide range of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus (which causes staph infections) and Helicobacter pylori (linked to stomach ulcers).

Because of its natural antibacterial properties, Manuka honey is often used in wound care. Studies have proven that applying Manuka honey to wounds can help prevent infection, speed up healing, and reduce inflammation. It’s also been used to treat burns, sores, and surgical wounds.

2. Boosts Immune System

Manuka honey is rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals. Free radicals can weaken the immune system and contribute to chronic diseases. By consuming Manuka honey regularly, you can support your immune system and enhance your body’s ability to fight off infections.

Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Manuka honey can help reduce symptoms associated with colds and flu, such as sore throats and coughing. A spoonful of Manuka honey in hot water or tea can soothe irritation and promote faster recovery.

3. Improves Digestive Health

Digestive issues such as acid reflux, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be alleviated by incorporating Manuka honey into your diet. Research has shown that the honey’s antibacterial properties help fight bacteria in the gut, including Helicobacter pylori, which is known to cause stomach ulcers.

Manuka honey’s prebiotic properties also make it beneficial for gut health. Prebiotics feed the good bacteria in your digestive system, promoting a balanced microbiome and supporting overall digestive health. Regular consumption of Manuka honey can lead to improved digestion, reduced bloating, and better nutrient absorption.

4. Promotes Oral Health

While it may seem counterintuitive to consume honey to improve oral health, Manuka honey’s unique properties make it effective in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. The antibacterial effects of MGO can help combat harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing plaque formation and protecting the gums from infection.

Some studies have shown that Manuka honey can reduce gingivitis and bleeding gums. Its natural ability to soothe inflammation also makes it an excellent remedy for mouth ulcers and sore throats.

5. Supports Skin Health

Manuka honey has long been used in skincare due to its hydrating, soothing, and healing properties. It can be applied topically to treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and dry skin. The antibacterial properties of Manuka honey help to clear up infections and prevent future breakouts, while its anti-inflammatory effects reduce redness and irritation.

Manuka honey is also an excellent natural moisturiser. Its humectant properties draw moisture into the skin, leaving it hydrated and soft. Whether applied directly to the skin or used in a homemade mask, Manuka honey can help improve skin texture and overall complexion.

6. Aids in Wound Healing

Manuka honey’s use in wound care is well-documented, particularly for its role in treating chronic wounds and ulcers. The honey creates a protective barrier over the wound, keeping it moist and preventing infection. Manuka honey’s ability to stimulate tissue regeneration has been shown to speed up the healing process, particularly for burns, diabetic ulcers, and pressure sores.

Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties also reduce pain and swelling in the affected area, contributing to quicker recovery.

How to Choose Genuine New Zealand Manuka Honey

When buying Manuka honey, it’s essential to look for the UMF rating to ensure you’re purchasing a genuine product. The UMF rating indicates the concentration of the honey’s key compounds, and for medicinal purposes, a UMF rating of 10 or higher is recommended.

Manuka honey with a UMF rating below 10 can still be used for general wellness, such as boosting immunity or improving digestion, but higher-rated Manuka honey is best for therapeutic use.

How to Incorporate Manuka Honey into Your Diet

Manuka honey can be consumed in a variety of ways:

Directly from the jar: A spoonful of Manuka honey each day can help boost immunity and improve digestion.

In hot drinks: Add a spoonful to your tea or warm water for a soothing beverage that helps relieve sore throats and colds.

As a sweetener: Use Manuka honey as a healthier alternative to sugar in baking, cooking, or smoothies.

Topically: Apply Manuka honey directly to the skin for acne, wounds, or dry patches.

Conclusion

Genuine New Zealand Manuka honey is much more than a sweet treat. Its proven health benefits make it a powerful natural remedy for a range of conditions, from wound healing to digestive health. With its potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, Manuka honey can support overall wellness and improve specific health issues. By choosing high-quality Manuka honey with a certified UMF rating, you can ensure that you are reaping the full therapeutic benefits of this remarkable natural product.

Baking with Natural Sweeteners: A Healthier Alternative

As more people become conscious of their sugar intake and its effects on health, natural sweeteners are gaining popularity in the baking world. 

These alternatives to refined sugar offer a range of flavours and benefits, making them a fantastic choice for those looking to bake healthier treats without compromising on taste.

This blog post will guide you through some of the most popular natural sweeteners, their unique properties, and how to use them effectively in your baking.

Understanding Natural Sweeteners

Natural sweeteners are derived from plant sources and undergo minimal processing, retaining more of their nutritional value compared to refined sugar. Here are some common natural sweeteners you might want to try:

Honey

Honey is a versatile sweetener with a distinct flavour that can enhance both sweet and savoury dishes. It's packed with antioxidants and has antibacterial properties. Use honey in cakes, biscuits, and breads, but remember to reduce the oven temperature slightly to prevent over-browning.

Maple Syrup

Extracted from the sap of maple trees, this sweetener has a rich, caramel-like taste. It's a great choice for pancakes, waffles, and muffins. Maple syrup is slightly less sweet than sugar, so you might need to adjust the quantity in your recipes.

Agave Nectar

Agave nectar, derived from the agave plant, is sweeter than sugar but has a low glycaemic index, making it a good option for those managing blood sugar levels. It works well in moist desserts like brownies and cakes.

Coconut Sugar

Made from the sap of coconut palm flowers, coconut sugar has a mild caramel flavour and is less processed than regular sugar. It's a direct substitute for granulated sugar and can be used in cookies, cakes, and pastries.

Date Syrup and Date Sugar

Dates are naturally sweet and rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Date syrup is made from pureed dates and has a rich, molasses-like taste. Date sugar is simply dehydrated, ground dates. Both are excellent for adding depth to baked goods.

Tips for Baking with Natural Sweeteners

Adjusting Recipes

Natural sweeteners have different levels of sweetness and moisture content compared to refined sugar. Start by substituting a portion of the sugar with your chosen natural sweetener and adjust based on taste and texture. For liquid sweeteners like honey and maple syrup, you may need to reduce the amount of other liquids in the recipe.

Flavour Pairings

Experiment with flavour combinations to complement the unique taste of each sweetener. For instance, honey pairs well with citrus fruits and nuts, while maple syrup complements spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Baking Temperature

Natural sweeteners can cause baked goods to brown more quickly. Lower the oven temperature by 10-15°C (20-30°F) and keep an eye on your bake to avoid burning.

Texture and Moisture

Liquid sweeteners add moisture, which can affect the texture of your baked goods. Consider adding a bit more flour or dry ingredients to balance the consistency.

Storage

Baked goods made with natural sweeteners tend to stay moist longer. Store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Delicious Recipes to Try

Here are a few recipes to get you started with natural sweeteners:

Honey and Almond Cake

Ingredients:

200g ground almonds

100g plain flour

1 tsp baking powder

3 large eggs

150g honey

100ml olive oil

Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 170°C (150°C fan/gas mark 3).

Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another.

Combine both mixtures and pour into a greased cake tin.

Bake for 30-35 minutes until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Allow to cool before serving.

Maple Syrup Oat Biscuits

Ingredients:

200g rolled oats

100g wholemeal flour

1 tsp baking soda

100ml maple syrup

100ml coconut oil, melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4).

Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl.

In another bowl, mix the maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract.

Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until well combined.

Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet and flatten slightly.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Cool on a wire rack before enjoying.

Conclusion

Baking with natural sweeteners is a delightful way to reduce refined sugar intake while still enjoying delicious treats. By understanding the properties of different sweeteners and making a few adjustments to your recipes, you can create baked goods that are both healthier and flavourful. So, next time you’re in the kitchen, why not try swapping out refined sugar for one of these natural alternatives? Happy baking!

The Buzz About World Bee Day: Vital for Food and Drink

In a world where culinary delights and refreshing beverages play an integral role in our lives, it’s easy to overlook the humble heroes that make it all possible: Bees. 

Every 20th of May, World Bee Day reminds us of the vital importance of bees and other pollinators in our food and drink ecosystem. 

This day, designated by the United Nations, is a call to action to protect these tiny, yet mighty, creatures. Let’s look at why World Bee Day is crucial and how it impacts our sustenance.

The Unsung Heroes of Pollination

Bees, particularly honeybees, are paramount to pollination, a process essential for the reproduction of many plants. About 75% of the world's food crops rely on pollinators. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds – foods that form the cornerstone of a healthy diet – owe their existence to these industrious insects. Without bees, our diet would be bland, lacking the variety and nutrition we currently enjoy.

A Toast to Bees: Their Role in Beverages

It’s not just our food that benefits from bee pollination. Bees also contribute to the production of several beverages. For instance, coffee, one of the world's most popular drinks, benefits from bee pollination, leading to better yields and improved quality. The same goes for tea, which requires the pollination of flowering plants. Moreover, the honey used in various drinks and cocktails is a direct product of the bees’ hard work.

The Economic Impact

Bees have a significant economic impact as well. The global crop production attributable to pollinators is valued at hundreds of billions of pounds annually. Farmers depend on bees to maintain crop yields and quality, which in turn affects market prices and food availability. The decline in bee populations, therefore, poses a substantial threat to food security and economic stability.

Threats to Bee Populations

Despite their importance, bees face numerous threats. Habitat loss, climate change, pesticides, and diseases have all contributed to the decline in bee populations. Intensive farming practices have reduced the availability of forage for bees, while climate change has altered flowering times and food availability. Pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, have been shown to have detrimental effects on bee health, impacting their ability to forage and reproduce.

What Can We Do?

World Bee Day serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in protecting bees. Here are some actions we can take:

Support Sustainable Farming: Choose products from farms that use sustainable practices. Organic farming, for example, avoids harmful pesticides and provides a healthier environment for bees.

Plant Bee-Friendly Gardens: Fill your garden with a variety of flowering plants that bloom at different times of the year to provide a consistent food source for bees.

Reduce Pesticide Use: If you must use pesticides, opt for those that are less harmful to bees and apply them in the evening when bees are less active.

Support Local Beekeepers: Buy honey and other bee products from local beekeepers who use sustainable practices. This supports local economies and encourages environmentally friendly beekeeping.

Celebrating World Bee Day

World Bee Day is not just about raising awareness; it’s also about celebrating the incredible contributions of bees to our food and drink. Host a bee-themed garden party, visit a local beekeeper, or simply enjoy a meal rich in bee-pollinated foods. By celebrating bees, we can foster a greater appreciation for their role in our ecosystem and inspire action to protect them.

In conclusion, World Bee Day is a vital reminder of the indispensable role bees play in our food and drink. From pollinating the crops that fill our plates to enhancing the beverages we enjoy, bees are integral to our sustenance and well-being. Let’s take this day to honour these remarkable creatures and commit to actions that ensure their survival for generations to come.

The Bee Conservancy has ten ways you can help save the bees:- 

https://thebeeconservancy.org/10-ways-to-save-the-bees

Wildlife Trusts also have some good ideas:-

https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/savingbees

And the British Beekeepers’ Association wants us to help save the bees of the UK:-

https://www.bbka.org.uk/appeal/save-the-bees

Great Taste 3 Stars for Hive Mind Wye Valley Traditional Mead

The Hive Mind Mead & Brew Co has been awarded the highest three-star Great Taste award rating for its Wye Valley Traditional Mead.

The Guild of Fine Food rates three star products as “extraordinarily tasty food and drink” and only 2% of the thousands of products submitted for Great Taste judging every year achieves three stars.

Hive Mind brews meads and beers at its meadery in Caldicot using only natural ingredients and honey from its own local hives, where its beekeeping supports habitat conservation and important pollinator populations.

Hive Mind’s Traditional Mead reflects the flavours from the hills, meadows, hedgerows and woodlands of the Wye Valley through the honey that's harvested each and every season. To make the honey which goes into every bottle, the bees will have pollinated more than 1.7 million flowers and flown in excess of 70,000 miles.

The Great Taste accreditations celebrate the UK’s finest artisanal food and drink and are blind-tasted by a panel including celebrity chefs, Michelin-starred restaurateurs, food critics, buyers, retailers and writers. 

Three-star products will then go on to compete for the Great Taste’s Golden Fork Awards, given to the best products in each nation and region next October.

The judges’ comments described the Mead’ as: “Altogether beautifully crafted and thoroughly enjoyable…This is an absolute joy to imbibe and we loved it.”

Judges’ tasting notes included: “A lovely complexity to this mead - well balanced throughout with woody and toasted notes and a soft sweetness rolling into a soft lemony acidity with a long finish”; “Smooth and silken on the palate with lingering floral notes on the finish. A really delightful and delicious mead with both fragrance and floral complexity”; and “A delightful, promising nose with a heady, blossomed fragrance to this gorgeous pale yellow mead. Softly sweet and nuanced, rounded and complex and deeply floral.”

This year, to help reduce food waste and prevent honey left over after the judging process being discarded, Hive Mind will be working with the Guild of Fine Food to collect the honey and brew a new ‘Great Taste’ mead.

Hive Mind’s tasting notes describe the Mead as sweet, rich and moreish with rich floral and heather notes. Hive Mind Traditional Mead is sold in classic cork-stopped 70cl bottles in numbered batches and is 14.5% ABV.

Hive Mind sells direct to consumers online and from its wonderful Caldicot tap house. It's also available through independent delis, farm shops, bars and restaurants all over the UK through specialist distributors including Pig’s Ears, Cotswold Fayre, Hammonds of Knutsford, Craft Drinks Co and Blas ar Fwyd.

The Traditional Mead, along with the special whiskey barrel-aged version, has recently been added to the shelves of Selfridges and is used by Michelin-starred restaurants including Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck and James Sommerin’s Home, following an appearance earlier this year on a TV series with the Hairy Bikers focused on small artisan producers.

Hive Mind co-founder Kit Newell said: “We describe our Traditional Mead as a distillation of the local landscape - it’s a well-balanced flavour that showcases the seasonality and all the floral notes from our carefully selected local honey, not just its sweetness. 

"It’s a great example of how we’re working to modernise the perception of what mead can offer and how well it works as an alternative to sweet wines, spirits or ciders. It is also a fantastic after-dinner drink and pairs beautifully with tasty blue cheeses.”

“We’ve seen a huge surge in interest in mead in the US off the back of the growth in the craft beer market as people search out new and interesting flavours. And we’re delighted to be growing the profile and availability of mead in the UK through recognition by the Great Taste judges and the growing number of specialist distributors, artisan retailers and high-profile chefs supporting Hive Mind,” he pointed out.

Hive Mind has recently launched a range of specialist flavoured session-strength Sparkling Mead (4%, 330ml cans). Other Hive Mind products include Oak Whiskey Barrel-Aged Traditional Mead (20%, 500ml) and honey beers including honey pilsner, Nectar (440ml 4.5%), smoked honey porter (750ml 7.0%), Citra IPA (330ml 5.7%) and golden ale (330ml 4.5%).

https://hivemindmead.com/

Hive Mind Mead & Brew Co. has launched a new range of naturally-flavoured sparkling mead in cans

The new Hive Mind Sparkling Mead range is 4% ABV and comes in four fascinating flavours, ginger, elderflower, rhubarb and pure honey.

For the first time ever, it's going to be available in 330ml cans, sold individually or as a boxed four-pack containing one of each flavour. Two more flavours, sour cherry and honey & hops will soon also be added to the range.

And all of the company’s mead is gluten free, it's made using natural ingredients and with British honey, including honey from its own hives which are based in the Wye Valley, where its beekeeping supports local biodiversity, habitat conservation and important pollinator populations.

Showcasing their beekeeping heritage, the sparkling mead cans will carry new Hive Mind branding, based around colourful honeycomb illustrations, and highlighting the approximately 300,000 flowers visited and 50,000 miles flown by bees to make the honey for every can. 

The Sparkling Mead launched on 20 May to coincide with World Bee Day, an international day of awareness in support of these vital pollinators.

The meadery was launched in 2018 as the Wye Valley Meadery by beekeeping brothers Kit and Matt Newell, and has recently rebranded as the Hive Mind Mead & Brew Co. The brothers have long been pioneers in a resurgence in UK mead-making, taking one of the world’s oldest alcoholic drinks and creating new, more modern styles from session-strength light and refreshing sparkling meads right through to stronger, more traditional wine-style and barrel-aged meads.

Hive Mind co-founder Kit Newell said: “We’ve been creating new meads which have been at the forefront of growing interest in the product here within the UK, pioneering modern styles and changing perceptions of this versatile drink. We know that modern mead can stand head to head with beers, wines or spirits for its range of flavour profiles, as a base for cocktails or as a different option for food pairings.

“Our new session strength (4%) Sparkling Mead cans have been specially created to be light and refreshing, flavoured with natural and seasonal ingredients to make them a great summer drink for all occasions. Canning our sparkling mead makes it more portable for outdoor events, it's easy to chill and we feel convinced that it’s a more sustainable option than glass.

“As beekeepers, we understand the importance of protecting nature, supporting pollinators, creating sustainable products and working as part of our community.

And our new Hive Mind brand highlights our beekeeping heritage and shares our company’s mission to help the honeybees through the honey we make and our low impact, low intervention approach to brewing, ” he said.

The Hive Mind Sparkling Mead range will be available nationwide from independent retailers, delis and farm shops or direct from Hive Mind’s own website.

Other Hive Mind products include an award-winning wine-style Traditional Mead, Oak Whiskey Barrel-Aged Traditional Mead and honey beers including a 3 Star Great Taste Award-winning Smoked Honey Porter, a honey pilsner called ‘Nectar’ and a pollen-infused hazy pale called ‘Pollinator.’

https://hivemindmead.com/

(EDITOR: I have to admit that as a former home brewer of mead, I'm going to enjoy this new style mead.)