Honeycomb

What Is Honeycomb?

Honeycomb is a form of honey sold directly, cut from the hive without being strained, after the hexagonal cells woven by bees from beeswax (the comb) have been filled with honey. It is the least processed form of honey.

The comb itself is also edible; the beeswax is not digested, but after being chewed and its flavor extracted like chewing gum, it can be spat out or swallowed if desired — this is a matter of preference.

Nutritional Values of Honeycomb

100 grams of honeycomb contains approximately 320 kcal of energy; it is largely composed of natural sugars (fructose-glucose). The beeswax component is indigestible and has almost no calorie value. Values are approximate.

How Should Honeycomb Be Consumed?

Honeycomb is consumed in measured amounts as part of a balanced diet, due to its intense sugar content.

This information is general; honeycomb is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment. It is recommended that infants under 1 year of age not be given honey (including honeycomb); those with a honey allergy should avoid it.

How Should Honeycomb Be Selected?

Good honeycomb has cells that are filled-sealed with honey, a color ranging from golden yellow to dark amber depending on the honey type, and a natural floral scent. Combs with empty cells or leaking honey are not preferred.

• Cells should be filled with honey and closed (capped)
• Color should be consistent, appropriate to the honey type
• Smell should be naturally floral, not sour/fermented

How Should Honeycomb Be Stored?

Honeycomb is stored at room temperature in a closed container; storing it in the refrigerator is not recommended as it can accelerate the crystallization of the honey.

Using Honeycomb in the Kitchen

Honeycomb is most often served at breakfast tables with cheese, on toast and bread, and sliced on top of yogurt and fruit.

Can Honeycomb Be Heated?

Heating it is not recommended; high heat can degrade both the honey's natural enzymes and aromas, and the texture of the beeswax. Serving at room temperature is preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the wax of honeycomb edible?

Yes, it is edible; it is not digested but is harmless, and many people swallow it after chewing and enjoying the flavor, while others may spit it out if they prefer.

Are honeycomb and strained honey the same honey?

Their source is the same (bee honey), but honeycomb is unprocessed, while strained honey is the fluid form separated from the comb and filtered.

Why is honeycomb more expensive?

Being sold directly without processing, and the fact that its production and harvesting process is more labor-intensive, generally raises its price compared to strained honey.