"Unprocessed" is one of the most common words on honey jars in the UAE. But what does it actually mean, and how can you tell? Here is a simple guide to unprocessed honey, how it differs from regular supermarket honey, and what to check before you buy.
What is unprocessed honey?
Unprocessed honey is honey that has been taken from the hive, strained to remove bits of wax, and put into jars, with as little else done to it as possible. It is usually also called raw honey. It has not been pasteurised (heated to high temperatures) or finely filtered.
Most regular supermarket honey is processed: it is often heated and finely filtered so that it stays clear and runny on the shelf for a long time.
Raw vs processed honey at a glance
| Raw / unprocessed | Processed | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | Not pasteurised | Often heated |
| Filtering | Strained | Often finely filtered |
| Look | Can be cloudy | Usually clear |
| Crystallisation | Crystallises naturally over time | Stays runny for longer |
| Taste | Varies with the flowers and season | More uniform |
Is crystallised honey a bad sign?
No. Crystallisation is natural, and raw honey often crystallises over time. Some honeys, like White Mountain honey, are naturally creamy and set. If you prefer it runny, stand the closed jar in warm water.
How to check a jar of honey
- Read the words: look for "raw" or "unpasteurised", not only "natural" or "pure".
- Read the ingredients: 100% honey, nothing added.
- Look for a named origin: a country and region, and ideally the flower.
- Ask the seller: was it heated or finely filtered?
- Check the guarantee: Balqees offers a purity guarantee on its honey.
"Organic" is a different label again. Read organic vs raw vs natural honey to see how they differ.
Unprocessed honeys to try
- Raw Yemeni Sidr Do'ani Honey: rich and aromatic, from Wadi Do'an.
- Yemeni Wildflower Raw Honey: fresh, floral and lighter.
- White Mountain: a pale, creamy raw honey from Kyrgyzstan.
Storing raw honey in the UAE heat
Keep the jar tightly closed in a cool cupboard, away from direct sun and the stove. Do not leave it in a hot car. Use a dry spoon. There is no need to refrigerate honey. See how to store raw honey.
Frequently asked questions
Is all honey sold in the UAE raw?
No. Many honeys are processed. Check the label for "raw" or "unpasteurised".
Why does my unprocessed honey look cloudy?
Raw honey can look cloudy because it has not been finely filtered, and because it is starting to crystallise. Both are natural.
Can I give unprocessed honey to children?
Honey should not be given to babies under 12 months. For older children, read our guide to honey and children.
Why does Yemeni honey cost more?
Short seasons, remote valleys and small harvests. Read why Yemeni honey is expensive.
Discover raw, unpasteurised honey in the Balqees Yemeni Classic collection, delivered across the UAE.
