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Reading Honey Labels
- matthew jackson
- Sep 16
- 2 min read
Don’t Get Stung: 6 Ways to Read Honey Labels Like a Pro
How to choose real, raw, and responsibly produced honey in the grocery store
As more people become interested in eating local, supporting pollinators, and choosing all-natural foods, honey has taken center stage in kitchens and pantries. But not all honey is created equal — and many store-bought bottles are more trickery than treat.
At Wisconsin Bee Company, we often hear from customers who feel confused or overwhelmed when reading honey labels at the grocery store. What does “pure” mean? Is “organic” always better? And why are some jars crystal clear while others look cloudy?
We’ve put together a simple checklist to help you shop smarter — and ensure you’re getting the good stuff: honey that’s real, raw, responsibly sourced, and better for your body and the bees.
Keep reading or download our checklist to take with you on your next shopping trip.
Your Honey Label Checklist
✅ 1. Check the Country of OriginLook for a U.S. origin on the label. Many grocery store brands are blends of imported honey, often from multiple countries with inconsistent standards.
✅ 2. Look for “Raw”“Raw” honey hasn’t been heavily heated or ultra-filtered. It still contains beneficial enzymes, pollens, and antioxidants. If it’s crystal clear and pours like syrup, it’s likely been processed.
✅ 3. Seek “Unfiltered” or “Minimally Filtered”These honeys retain more natural nutrients, pollen, and trace elements from the hive. Filtered honey may look prettier but has less flavor and fewer benefits.
✅ 4. Avoid “Honey Blends”If the label says “blend of honey and…” (corn syrup, glucose, etc.), skip it. These are diluted products — not real honey.
✅ 5. Know Your Beekeeper (If You Can)Local producers offer traceable, seasonal, and truly pure honey. At Wisconsin Bee Company, we use honey from our own hives and partner beekeepers we know and trust. Farmer’s markets, food co-ops, and specialty shops are great sources.
🚨 ✅ 6. Be Cautious with “USDA Organic” on Imported Honey
Why it’s tricky:I mported honey can legally carry a “USDA Organic” label — even if it doesn’t fully meet USDA’s domestic standards — due to international certification agreements.
Why it matters: Some foreign "organic" honeys are harvested using practices not allowed in the U.S. organic system. This can include questionable antibiotic use, chemical exposure near hives, or filtered honey that removes origin traces.
What to do instead: Buy locally produced honey from local beekeepers. Meet them, talk to them, and learn about their practices. Supporting local ensures transparency, strengthens your community, and promotes responsible beekeeping.
Final Tip: Taste the Difference
Once you start using real, raw, local honey, you'll notice the difference — in taste, texture, and how you feel supporting sustainable beekeeping. At Wisconsin Bee Company, all of our honeys are made from Wisconsin hives, harvested by hand, and bottled in small batches with zero nonsense.
Ready to taste the real thing?
Check out our Wildflower Honey, or explore our line of honey jams, BBQ sauces, and mustards — all sweetened with the good stuff.