While nutrient-rich honey is widely known for its ability to support respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and nervous system health, the jar tucked away in your cupboard may not be offering these benefits as expected.According to Fabián Torres, Director of Business Development at SICPA and a honey specialist, up to 80% of honey sold in Spain is actually blended, containing only a small proportion of genuine honey and supplemented with additives such as sugar. As reported by El Espanol, this raises concerns about the quality of honey available in the market.Torres warns that these "fake" and low-quality honey products, often laden with additives, resemble syrups more than real honey. "At best, they contain added sugar, turning them into harmful caloric bombs, particularly for children and the elderly," he cautions. This issue is especially prominent in baked goods and processed products containing honey, where identifying the true origin of the honey used becomes even more difficult.Even if you manage to source authentic, nutrient-dense honey, its health benefits may still be compromised depending on how you consume it. A common practice is adding honey to hot beverages as a sugar substitute, with the belief that it provides a healthier alternative while reducing calorie intake. However, this method may not be as beneficial as expected.Beekeeping expert Giorgio Poeta emphasizes that heat is "the greatest enemy" of honey. He explains that when honey is exposed to temperatures above 50°C, it loses its nutritional properties, thereby stripping it of its valuable health benefits. This highlights the importance of consuming honey in a way that preserves its natural goodness.To maximize the health advantages of honey, experts recommend using it in raw form or adding it to warm, rather than hot, food and beverages. By being mindful of both the authenticity and handling of honey, consumers can ensure they are truly reaping its potential health benefits. Why Should You Eat Consume Honey?While nutrient-rich honey is widely known for its ability to support respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and nervous system health, the jar tucked away in your cupboard may not be offering these benefits as expected.According to Fabián Torres, Director of Business Development at SICPA and a honey specialist, up to 80% of honey sold in Spain is actually blended, containing only a small proportion of genuine honey and supplemented with additives such as sugar. As reported by El Espanol, this raises concerns about the quality of honey available in the market.Torres warns that these "fake" and low-quality honey products, often laden with additives, resemble syrups more than real honey. "At best, they contain added sugar, turning them into harmful caloric bombs, particularly for children and the elderly," he cautions. This issue is especially prominent in baked goods and processed products containing honey, where identifying the true origin of the honey used becomes even more difficult.Even if you manage to source authentic, nutrient-dense honey, its health benefits may still be compromised depending on how you consume it. A common practice is adding honey to hot beverages as a sugar substitute, with the belief that it provides a healthier alternative while reducing calorie intake. However, this method may not be as beneficial as expected.Beekeeping expert Giorgio Poeta emphasizes that heat is "the greatest enemy" of honey. He explains that when honey is exposed to temperatures above 50°C, it loses its nutritional properties, thereby stripping it of its valuable health benefits. This highlights the importance of consuming honey in a way that preserves its natural goodness.To maximize the health advantages of honey, experts recommend using it in raw form or adding it to warm, rather than hot, food and beverages. By being mindful of both the authenticity and handling of honey, consumers can ensure they are truly reaping its potential health benefits.