How to Choose Raw Honey
Honey comes in many varieties and price points. A few simple label checks help you find a good jar.
Last reviewed: October 2026 · How we research
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before starting any supplement.
Raw or regular?
Raw honey is typically not heated or finely filtered, so it can contain small particles such as pollen and may look cloudy. Regular honey is usually pasteurized and filtered, which makes it clearer and gives it a longer shelf life. Both are fine to eat. Honey is still a sugar, so enjoy it in moderation.
Read the label
- Origin. Look for a named country, region or beekeeper. "Pure" or "natural" on its own tells you little.
- Single ingredient. The only ingredient should be honey. Honey blended with syrups is a known problem in the industry, which is why traceable sources matter.
- Variety. Clover and wildflower are everyday choices. Orange blossom and buckwheat have stronger flavors.
- Manuka. It is expensive and graded with ratings such as UMF or MGO. Counterfeits exist, so buy from a reputable seller.
Good to know
- Do not give honey to a child under 12 months, and do not add it to a baby's food, water, formula or pacifier. It can cause infant botulism, a serious illness.
- Crystallized honey is normal and still safe. Warm the jar gently in a bowl of warm water to make it liquid again.
- Claims that local honey relieves allergies are popular, but the evidence is limited.
- Store it at room temperature with the lid closed. It does not need refrigeration.
Sources and further reading
We read these pages in October 2026. They come from government health agencies in the United States and are not affiliated with this site. Where official advice differs between countries, we say so in the guide. Always follow the advice of your own doctor or pharmacist.
- CDC: Foods and Drinks to Avoid or Limit (infants and toddlers) (page dated April 2026)
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