Sri Lanka, known as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” has a long history of producing high-quality natural products, including tea, spices, and gems. One of the lesser-known treasures of Sri Lanka is its bee honey. Sri Lankan bee honey is superior to honey from other countries due to its unique flavor, health benefits, and sustainable production methods. Goodfolks was the first to launch the Regional Bee Honey collection from Sri Lanka and offers three distinct bee honey products, Dark, Amber and Gold.
Flavor of Sri Lankan Bee Honey
Sri Lankan bee honey is known for its distinctive flavor profile, which sets it apart from honey produced in other regions. The nectar collected from Sri Lankan flora produces a rich and complex flavor that is both sweet and slightly bitter. This flavor profile is a result of the diverse range of flowers and plants that bees collect nectar from, including tropical fruits, herbs, and wildflowers.
In particular, Sri Lankan bee honey from the dry zone (North & North Central) has a darker color and thicker consistency compared to honey from other countries. This makes it an ideal ingredient for baking and cooking, as it imparts a rich flavor and texture to dishes. Meanwhile, the Amber variety from the Uva region and Gold variety from the Sabaragamuwa region offer variations in color, taste, and texture while maintaining the medicinal properties of Sri Lankan bee honey.
Overall, the unique flavor profile and diverse range of varieties make Sri Lankan bee honey a highly sought-after product in the global market. The nectar from Sri Lankan flora produces a flavor that cannot be replicated elsewhere, making it a truly special ingredient for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Health Benefits
Sri Lankan bee honey is packed with health benefits that make it an ideal addition to any diet. Unlike processed sugars, honey is a natural source of carbohydrates that provides sustained energy without causing spikes in blood sugar levels. Honey is also a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, Sri Lankan bee honey contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe sore throats and alleviate allergies.
Rich in Nutrients
Sri Lankan bee honey is a rich source of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. A study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology found that Sri Lankan bee honey had a higher total phenolic content and enzyme activity compared to honey produced in other countries. Phenolic compounds are antioxidants that have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Higher Antioxidant Content
Sri Lankan bee honey has a higher antioxidant content compared to honey produced in other countries. A study conducted by the Department of Food Science and Technology at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura found that Sri Lankan bee honey had a significantly higher total antioxidant capacity compared to honey from other countries. Antioxidants help protect the body from free radicals, which can cause cellular damage and contribute to chronic diseases.
Lower Moisture content
Sri Lankan bee honey is known to have a lower moisture content compared to honey from other countries. This is due to the unique climate and environment in Sri Lanka, which is characterized by high temperatures and humidity. The honeybees in Sri Lanka have adapted to these conditions by producing honey with a lower moisture content, which helps to prevent fermentation and spoilage.
A lower moisture content also means that Sri Lankan bee honey has a longer shelf life and is less likely to crystallize over time. This makes it a more desirable product for both consumers and producers.
In addition, the lower moisture content in Sri Lankan bee honey results in a thicker consistency and richer flavor profile. This is because the bees need to work harder to evaporate excess moisture from the nectar, resulting in a more concentrated and flavorful honey.
Overall, while the moisture content of honey is not the sole factor that determines its quality, the lower moisture content in Sri Lankan bee honey contributes to its unique flavor profile and longer shelf life, making it a highly desirable product in the global market.
Sustainable Production Methods by Goodfolks
Sri Lankan bee honey and is produced using sustainable methods that prioritize the health and well-being of the bees. Beekeepers in Sri Lanka use traditional methods that are passed down from generation to generation, including natural hive management techniques and organic beekeeping practices. This results in honey that is free from harmful chemicals and additives, making it a healthier and more environmentally friendly option than honey produced using industrial methods.
Sri Lankan bee honey is a superior product that stands out for its unique flavor, health benefits, and sustainable production methods. Whether you’re using it in cooking, adding it to your tea, or enjoying it straight from the jar, Sri Lankan bee honey is a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet. With its rich history and commitment to sustainability, it’s no wonder that Sri Lanka is fast becoming one of the best honey producers in the world. This turn of events has much to do with the hard work put in by the team at Goodfolks who have been uncovering these secrets and presenting them to the world.
Sources:
“Sri Lanka Honey Market – Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2021-2026)” – ResearchAndMarkets.com
“Sri Lankan Honey: A Sweet Smelling Success Story” – DailyFT
“Sri Lanka Honey Industry Development Plan” – Ministry of Agriculture, Sri Lanka.
“Total Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Capacity and Enzyme Activity of Honey Produced in Sri Lanka” – Journal of Food Science and Technology
