C
onsumers are buzzing about honey, and producers can barely keep up with demand for the prod-
uct that one honey farmer described as "caramelized sunshine."
A mericans consumed about 585 million pounds of honey in 2017, which equates to approxi-
mately 1.8 pounds per capita, according to a recent report from the National Honey Board, citing data
from the USDA. The total volume consumed increased 50 percent from 2009 to 2017, the research found.
Hyperlocal honeys are being sought for a range of benefits.
BY MARK HAMSTRA
Honey Hits the Sweet Spot:
What Buyers Should Know
Local honey, in particular, has seen an uptick in demand,
as consumers have sought out local products overall and as
they have gained a greater understanding of the role that bees
play in their local environments. "People increasingly want to
support their local community, and bees do a special, magical
job in that they help pollinate all kinds of wonderful foods,
and then they also produce honey," says Margaret Lombard,
CEO of the NHB, which is based in Longmont, Colo. "They
are these perfect little creatures that are great ambassadors for
the environment."
Consumer interest in natural sweeteners as an alternative
to processed sugar is also helping drive increased honey con-
sumption, she says. "Local honey products are sort of naturally
poised for that food trend," says Lombard.
Health Benefits
Several health benefits have been ascribed to honey, from its
use as a cough suppressant to a sleep aid to a salve for wounds.
Advocates of local honey also cite its ability to alleviate some
seasonal allergies and its antioxidant properties.
42 ❘ SPECIALTY FOOD MAGAZINE specialtyfood.com
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