Tag: Greek honey

The Greek island of Ikaria, a designated "Blue Zone" of longevity, has residents who are four times more likely to live to 90 than Americans. A significant aspect of their famously healthy lifestyle is the daily ritual of drinking herbal tea, and their choice of sweetener plays a key role in their overall well-being.

Studies have shown that some dark Greek honeys, like oak and pine, possess antioxidant activity comparable to or higher than certain Manuka types, often misunderstood for their potency. So, is Greek honey healthier? Its rich biodiversity and traditional methods offer compelling reasons to explore its benefits.

According to a 2023 report from the European Commission, nearly half of the honey imported into Europe from non-EU countries is suspected of being fraudulent, often blended with sugar syrups. While this is a global concern, it raises an important question: is Greek honey real honey? The answer lies in Greece’s unique beekeeping traditions, diverse flora, and stringent quality controls, but consumer vigilance is still essential.

With more beehives per acre than any other country in Europe, Greeks consume double the European and American averages for honey consumption. This love affair is rooted deep in the country's past, where honey was not just a sweetener but a cornerstone of their civilization, cuisine, and mythology.

According to a 2016 study by the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, certain Greek honeys were found to have significantly higher antioxidant properties compared to even the renowned Manuka honey. The question of *is Greek honey better than Manuka honey?* doesn't have a simple answer, as these two types of liquid gold offer distinct health benefits derived from their unique floral sources and active compounds.