A very interesting talk from Dr Etienne Bruneau at #NationalHoneyShow. He reported that imported honey from China to the UK may contain as much as 70% syrup, leaving only 30% as honey. The Chinese also extract immature honey which requires processing to reduce the water content. This is partially due to the migratory nature of their beekeeping. A Chinese beekeeper will travel between 1500 and 2000km in a year to gain as many honey harvests as possible. The Chinese honey is imported to the UK at approx £1 per kg and at up to 70% sugar syrup this may explain some of the difference in price between supermarket and local honey. If local beekeepers charged for the amount of time we spend in order to get a honey harvest and extract the honey, no one would be able to afford it.
One thing is clear. If you want local honey, buy from your local beekeeper. 🐝🐝🐝