Pasted Honey: What You Need to Know

Pasted honey is a term that might not be familiar to everyone, but it refers to a specific form of honey that has been processed to alter its texture and consistency.

This type of honey is popular among those who prefer a thicker, more spreadable product. In this article, we'll dive into what pasted honey is, how it's made, its benefits, and how it differs from other types of honey.

What is Pasted Honey?

Pasted honey, also known as creamed honey, whipped honey, or honey butter, is regular honey that has undergone a process to change its texture from liquid to a smooth, creamy paste. The transformation gives the honey a consistency similar to that of butter or margarine, making it easy to spread on bread, toast, or other foods.

How is Pasted Honey Made?

The process of making pasted honey involves controlling the natural crystallization of honey. Here's how it generally works:

1. Seeding with Fine Crystals: The key to making pasted honey is controlling the size of the crystals that form. Fine, smooth crystals are desirable, so the honey is seeded with small crystals from a batch of honey that has already crystallized. This encourages the rest of the honey to crystallize in the same way.

2. Stirring and Cooling: The honey is then gently stirred and cooled. This prevents large crystals from forming and helps distribute the fine crystals throughout the honey evenly.

3. Storage at a Controlled Temperature: Finally, the honey is stored at a controlled, cool temperature (around 55°F or 13°C). This allows it to set and develop a consistent, creamy texture.

Benefits of Pasted Honey

Pasted honey offers several advantages over traditional liquid honey:

• Spreadability: The creamy texture of pasted honey makes it easy to spread on bread, crackers, and other foods without dripping or running.

• Convenience: Unlike liquid honey, which can crystallize in an uneven and hard way over time, pasted honey retains a consistent texture, so you don’t have to worry about reheating it.

• Taste and Flavor: Since pasted honey is simply regular honey with a different texture, it retains all the natural flavors and benefits of raw honey, such as its antioxidants, enzymes, and antibacterial properties.

• Reduced Drip and Mess: Its thicker consistency reduces the chances of drips and spills, making it an ideal option for children or for those who prefer a mess-free experience.

Differences Between Pasted Honey and Other Types of Honey

There are several types of honey available, and it's important to understand how pasted honey differs from them:

• Raw Honey: Raw honey is unfiltered and unpasteurized, containing all its natural enzymes, pollen, and other beneficial components. Pasted honey can also be raw, depending on the initial product used in the process, but the key difference lies in its altered texture.

• Liquid Honey: This is the most common form of honey sold. Liquid honey has not been processed to control crystallization, so it will eventually crystallize over time. Pasted honey, on the other hand, is processed specifically to achieve a creamy, non-liquid form.

• Honey Comb: Honeycomb is the rawest form of honey, still encased in its natural wax structure. Pasted honey is far more processed in comparison and lacks the waxy components.

• Flavored or Infused Honey: This type of honey has added flavors, such as cinnamon or vanilla. Pasted honey focuses on texture rather than flavor additions.

How to Use Pasted Honey

Pasted honey can be used in various ways:

• Spread on Toast or Bagels: Its spreadable consistency makes it perfect for a quick, sweet addition to breakfast.
• Add to Smoothies or Tea: It can dissolve easily and adds a natural sweetness without the mess.
• As a Frosting Substitute: Use it on baked goods like muffins, pancakes, or even cakes as a natural, sweet alternative to traditional frostings.
• Dips and Dressings: Combine it with other ingredients like mustard or yogurt to create sweet and tangy dips or salad dressings.

Additional Facts About Pasted Honey

1. Long Shelf Life: Pasted honey tends to have a longer shelf life than liquid honey because the controlled crystallization prevents the formation of large, gritty crystals. This makes it an excellent choice for those who don't use honey frequently but still want it to stay fresh and enjoyable over time.

2. Retains Nutrients: When made properly, pasted honey retains all the nutrients, antioxidants, enzymes, and antibacterial properties of raw honey. Unlike pasteurized honey, which can lose some of its health benefits due to high heat, pasted honey is often created using gentle temperatures that preserve its natural goodness.

3. No Additives Needed: Pasted honey does not require any additives or preservatives to maintain its consistency. The change in texture is achieved purely through a natural process, making it a clean, pure product.

4. Popular in Certain Cultures: In countries like Canada, the UK, and New Zealand, pasted or creamed honey is very popular and is a common item found in most households. It's often chosen for its smooth texture and easy usability.

5. Great for Kids: Kids love honey, but it can be messy! Pasted honey’s thick, non-drip consistency makes it an excellent option for children. It spreads easily without the stickiness and mess of liquid honey.

6. No Crystallization Surprises: Unlike regular liquid honey, which can crystallize unevenly and become hard or grainy over time, pasted honey is specifically processed to have a smooth, even texture. You won’t open your jar one day to find a solid block of honey!

Why is Pasted Honey Good?

1. Supports Digestive Health: Like all types of honey, pasted honey contains prebiotics that promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut, aiding in digestion and overall gut health.

2. Natural Energy Booster: Honey, including pasted honey, is an excellent source of natural sugars like glucose and fructose, which provide a quick energy boost. It’s perfect for athletes or anyone needing a pick-me-up without the crash that often follows artificial sweeteners.

3. Rich in Antioxidants: Pasted honey retains the antioxidants found in raw honey, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease and some cancers.

4. Soothing for Sore Throats and Coughs: Honey has natural antimicrobial properties that make it effective in soothing sore throats and reducing cough symptoms. Pasted honey, with its smooth texture, can be particularly soothing when dissolved in warm tea or milk.

5. Skin Benefits: Honey is known for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties, making it a popular ingredient in natural skincare. Pasted honey is easier to apply and stay on the skin due to its thicker texture. It can be used in face masks, hair treatments, and even as a natural wound dressing.

6. Versatile Ingredient: Due to its spreadable nature, pasted honey can be used in many more ways than regular honey. It works well in baking, as a topping, in sauces, or even blended into dressings. Its consistency means it mixes easily without separating, making it ideal for recipes.

7. Immune System Support: The natural enzymes and antibacterial properties in honey can help support the immune system. Consuming a small amount of honey daily, such as a spoonful of pasted honey, can contribute to overall immune health.

8. Weight Management: Pasted honey, when used in moderation, can be a healthier alternative to refined sugars. It has a lower glycemic index, which means it won't spike blood sugar levels as quickly, helping in weight management and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

9. Great for Baking and Cooking: Pasted honey’s consistency makes it an excellent substitute for sugar or liquid sweeteners in recipes. Its thicker texture means it won't overly liquefy batters or doughs, making it ideal for baking cookies, muffins, or bread.

Fun Fact: The Perfect Gift!

Pasted honey is often considered a gourmet product. It makes for an excellent gift, particularly for those who enjoy natural, wholesome foods or who are interested in healthier eating options. Pairing it with artisanal bread or a selection of cheeses can create a delightful and thoughtful present.