Raw Honey

Health Benefits of Raw Honey Over Pasteurised Honey
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Higher Nutrient Content: Raw honey retains more vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes because it is only strained and not exposed to high heat. Pasteurisation, used in regular honey, destroys or reduces many of these beneficial compounds.
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More Antioxidants: Raw honey contains up to 4.3 times more antioxidants (such as polyphenols and flavonoids) compared to processed honey. These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and may lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain cancers.
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Contains Bee Pollen and Propolis: Raw honey preserves bee pollen and propolis, both of which are rich in nutrients and have anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, and healing properties. Processing and pasteurisation often remove these elements.
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Natural Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties: Raw honey maintains its natural enzymes and antimicrobial compounds, which can help fight bacteria and fungi. Pasteurisation can diminish these properties.
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Supports Digestive Health: The natural enzymes in raw honey, such as amylase, can aid digestion, a benefit reduced in pasteurised honey.
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Potential for Enhanced Immune Support: The immune-supporting polyphenols and nutrients in raw honey may help regulate immune function and increase protective immune cells.
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No Added Sweeteners: Raw honey is less likely to contain added sugars or sweeteners, sometimes present in commercial, processed honey.
Note: Both raw and pasteurised honey should not be given to infants under one year old due to the risk of botulism.
In summary, raw honey offers more health benefits than pasteurised honey because it retains more nutrients, antioxidants, and beneficial compounds that are often diminished or removed during pasteurisation.
Citations:
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/raw-honey-vs-regular
- https://www.healthybee.ie/blogs/news/raw-honey-vs-supermarket-pasteurised-honey
- https://www.clubhouse.ca/en-ca/articles/pasteurized-vs-unpasteurized-honey
- https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/top-raw-honey-benefits
- https://www.weightandwellness.com/resources/podcasts/raw-honey-vs-processed-honey-ask-nutritionist
- https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/04/22/3065506/0/en/Raw-Honey-at-Least-as-Safe-as-Pasteurized-Honey.html
- https://ashevillebeecharmer.com/honey-education/honey-nutrition/
- https://www.ontariohoney.ca/all-about-honey/honey-pasteurization
- https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/health/nutrition/is-honey-good-for-you/
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/honey-health-benefits
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10346535/