Liquid Honey vs. Raw Honey: Which Should You Choose?

It’s no secret that the team at Champlain Valley Apiaries loves honey in all of its forms. 

But with so many options available, it's no wonder our customers have their preferences! In fact, the question we get asked the most is, “what’s the deal with liquid honey vs. raw honey?” 

We hear you! That’s why we’re diving into the details to clear up the confusion and help you choose the variety that’s best for you. 🍯

1. What Is Liquid Honey?

Liquid honey is what most people think of when they think of honey. It’s the type most commonly found in grocery stores because it’s been pasteurized, meaning that it’s been heated to 110 degrees (sometimes much hotter) which denatures enzymes and put through a very fine filter that removes “impurities” like pollen . As a result, it has a clear look and more viscous texture. 

We recommend using liquid honey for baking and in your morning coffee or tea because it’s going to be heated up anyways! 

2. What is Raw Honey?

Raw honey, on the other hand, is honey in its purest form. So pure, in fact, that it’s what the bees themselves eat! Raw honey is unfiltered and unpasteurized, meaning it comes straight from the hive without being heated or processed. It’s been put through a strainer, rather than a filter, so that it retains all its natural nutrients, enzymes, and even some bee pollen and propolis (a resinous substance collected by bees). For this reason, raw honey has a cloudier appearance, thicker texture, and is more of a yellow color rather than the golden color of liquid honey. 

Our crystallized raw honey blend is what we pour our heart and soul into. It’s the product that keeps our customers coming back. It’s spreadable and creamy, not hard like many other raw honeys. This is the honey that many of our friends and family eat for health benefits because it contains enzymes, pollen, and antioxidants. Plus, it’s just plain delicious. 😋

3. Which Variety is Right For You? 

We mentioned earlier that liquid honey is great for baking, while raw honey is known for its pure form. So, when making the choice between the two types of honey, how you’ll be using it is the main factor to consider. 

We recommend going raw if: 

• You’re looking for a sweet addition to granola or yogurt. 
• You’re looking to take advantage of honey’s enzymes, pollen, and antioxidants. 
• You want to experience unique flavors from different local sources, as raw honey can vary depending on which flowers the bees pollinate.

We recommend liquid honey if: 

• Your primary purpose is to bake with it. 
• You pretty much only use it in coffee or tea.
• You want to make cocktails or simple syrup
• You prefer the smooth texture of liquid honey.

So, now that you know the difference between raw honey and liquid honey, be sure to snag some of our delicious high-quality honey produced by a 4th generation family-owned Vermont honey business. 🐝