What Makes Bloom Honey Different?
Bloom Honey is a notable brand in the natural foods market, primarily because of its commitment to selling pure, raw, and unfiltered honey. Unlike the majority of honey found on supermarket shelves, which is pasteurized and often ultra-filtered, Bloom honey undergoes minimal processing. This raw state is crucial for retaining the honey's natural integrity and beneficial components, such as antioxidants, live enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and pollen particles. Heat-treating honey, or pasteurization, kills yeast and helps prevent crystallization, but in doing so, it also destroys these delicate enzymes and reduces the overall nutritional value. Ultra-filtration removes any remaining pollen and other fine particles, leaving a clear, uniform syrup, but further strips the honey of its natural goodness. By avoiding these industrial processes, Bloom honey offers a product that is closer to its natural, hive-fresh state, providing a more robust nutritional profile and a richer, more complex flavor profile. The company also prides itself on sourcing its honey from local artisan beekeepers in various locations, adding to its artisanal quality and potentially offering unique flavor profiles depending on the floral source.
Raw vs. Regular Honey: A Comparison
| Feature | Bloom Honey (Raw & Unfiltered) | Regular Store-Bought Honey (Processed) |
|---|---|---|
| Processing | Minimally processed, not heated above 95°F, and only lightly strained. | Pasteurized at high temperatures and often ultra-filtered. |
| Nutrient Content | Contains a full spectrum of natural enzymes, amino acids, antioxidants (polyphenols), vitamins, and minerals. | Many natural nutrients and enzymes are destroyed or diminished by heat. |
| Pollen & Propolis | Retains beneficial bee pollen and propolis, which are removed during ultra-filtration. | Pollen and propolis are typically filtered out for clarity and shelf stability. |
| Crystallization | Natural tendency to crystallize over time, a sign of purity. | Slower to crystallize due to processing, but may be an indicator of lower quality. |
| Flavor Profile | Varied, complex flavors depending on floral source; more distinct taste. | Milder, more generic, and sweeter flavor due to heat processing. |
Nutritional Profile of Bloom Honey
On a basic level, Bloom honey is a source of carbohydrates and natural sugars, providing quick energy. A single tablespoon contains approximately 60-64 calories, 17g of carbohydrates, and 16g of sugar, with no fat or protein. Beyond these basic macronutrients, its raw and unfiltered nature is where its true nutritional value shines. This state allows it to retain a variety of micronutrients that would otherwise be lost in processing. These include small amounts of vitamins (such as B vitamins and Vitamin C) and minerals (like calcium, iron, and magnesium), which contribute to its overall health profile. Most notably, it is rich in polyphenols, which are natural compounds known for their powerful antioxidant properties.
Potential Health Benefits of Bloom Honey
Given its raw and unfiltered nature, Bloom honey offers several potential health benefits, aligning with the therapeutic uses of raw honey in traditional and folk medicine.
Antioxidant Power
Polyphenols found in raw honey, including Bloom honey, act as antioxidants that can help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Reducing oxidative stress is linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases and can support overall cellular health. The specific antioxidant content can vary depending on the floral source, with darker honey varieties often containing higher levels.
Soothing for Colds and Coughs
For centuries, honey has been a go-to natural remedy for soothing sore throats and calming coughs. Its thick, viscous consistency helps coat and soothe an irritated throat, while its natural antibacterial properties may help fight off respiratory infections. A spoonful of Bloom honey mixed into warm (not hot) tea or water can be a comforting and effective remedy.
Digestive Health Support
Raw honey, including Bloom's products, may offer benefits for the digestive system. It can act as a prebiotic, which helps to nourish the beneficial bacteria in your gut microbiome. A healthy gut can contribute to improved digestion and better overall wellness. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also help calm stomach irritations.
Allergy Relief? The Local Honey Theory
One popular theory is that consuming local, raw honey, like Bloom honey, can help alleviate seasonal allergies through a process similar to oral immunotherapy. By ingesting small, regular doses of local pollen present in raw honey, your body may build a tolerance to local allergens over time. However, it is important to note that scientific consensus on this is mixed, and it may not work for everyone. Individuals considering this should start weeks or months before allergy season for potential effect and should be aware of a possible bee pollen allergy. For more information on the benefits of raw wildflower honey, you can consult articles from reputable beekeepers like Marshall's Farm Honey.
Important Considerations and Side Effects
Despite its benefits, it's crucial to use Bloom honey responsibly and be aware of potential risks.
- Infant Botulism Risk: This is the most critical warning associated with raw honey. Do not give Bloom honey, or any raw honey, to infants under one year of age. Their digestive systems are not mature enough to handle the potential presence of Clostridium botulinum spores, which can lead to infant botulism, a rare but serious illness.
- High Sugar Content: Like all sweeteners, honey is high in natural sugars and calories. Consuming excessive amounts can lead to weight gain and blood sugar spikes, especially for individuals with diabetes. Moderation is key to enjoying its benefits without negative health impacts.
- Bee Pollen Allergies: As a raw and unfiltered product, Bloom honey contains bee pollen. Individuals with severe bee pollen allergies should be cautious, as it could trigger an allergic reaction.
- Digestive Issues: In some cases, overconsumption of honey can lead to digestive discomfort such as bloating, upset stomach, or diarrhea due to its sugar content.
Conclusion
So, is Bloom honey good for you? For healthy adults, it is a wholesome and nutritious alternative to processed sweeteners. Its raw and unfiltered state ensures that natural enzymes, antioxidants, and a richer flavor profile are preserved, unlike regular supermarket honey. While it offers potential health benefits for antioxidant intake, soothing coughs, and supporting digestion, it is not a cure-all and should be consumed in moderation due to its high sugar and calorie content. It is absolutely vital to never give raw honey to infants under one year of age. Ultimately, Bloom honey is an excellent choice for those seeking a pure, natural, and flavorful sweetener with added health-supporting compounds, as long as it's enjoyed responsibly.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or health regimen.