In the previous post, I discussed Manuka honey because they have a lot of beneficial elements compared to other types of honey. It source unique properties
The mineral content of honey can be measured through conductivity. Manuka honey conductivity is higher than the normal conductivity of other honey. It is about four times of normal flower honey. The higher the conductivity, the higher the nutritional value of Honey. Manuka honey has a Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) commonly used as a global standard for measuring and identifying the antibacterial strength of Manuka. The UMF is a guarantee or determines the medicinal quality of Honey being sold. It is a health value unique to Manuka honey.
Let’s go a bit technical
The minimum recognized UMF rating is UMF 5. However, that doesn’t mean it’s beneficial until it is at UMF 10 + level of antibacterial activity in the honey. A rating ranging from UMF 10 to UMF 15 is beneficial, and any rating at UMF 16 and above is regarded as superior quality. While organic honey does have positive health benefits, but the benefits are not the same in rating with that of Manuka.
Some questions about honey and answers
People ask some questions about Honey which at times seems confusing
Some include;
Does honey expire?
Honey has a long shelf life. It can be consumed after a long period as long as it is kept in a sealed container. Though honey may crystallize. The crystallization can be due to its long stay at a point and overabundance of sugar. However, it is a natural process
What is honey made of?
Honey is made of flower nectar mixed with enzymes naturally secreted by bees.
Why do bees make honey and how bees make honey?
Before winter, bees make honey and stored as food to be consumed during the cold months. Bees make honey by harvesting nectar from flowers and then secrete an enzyme which mixes with the nectar in the Honeycomb. With time, this mixture turns to honey.
What type of sugar is honey?
Raw honey contains sucrose and fructose usually unprocessed sugar.
What is the density of Honey?
Honey density ranges from 1.30 to 1.45 g per cm at 20 degrees centigrade
How many carbs are in honey?
There are approximately 17 grams of carbohydrate in 1 tablespoon of raw honey
Possible side effects and allergies of raw honey
Honey is safe when taken by mouth in recommended dosages, or normal food amounts. However, it shouldn’t be given to infants or children not up to 12 months old because it contains botulism spores. Honey is not dangerous to adults or older children, just infants. Adults can eat raw honey as long as they are not allergic to it. But if you have certain health conditions such as compromised immune system, undergoing radiation treatment or chemotherapy treatment for cancer, consult your doctor before you consume raw honey. if you are sensitive or allergic to celery related allergies
Just like taking any other sweetener or food, honey should be consumed in moderation. Side effects of mild honey intoxication include dizziness, weakness, vomiting, and nausea. There are likely no more serious side effects of consuming honey except you consume too much of Honey.
Written & Edited by: Mr. Adegbenro Tajudeen.
Entomologist, MyAgricWorld Agribusiness Consulting Firm
