THE HONEY HARVEST: A TIME TO CELEBRATE THIS NUTRITIONAL POWERHOUSE

By: Angela VanAlten / Ysseldyk, Beekeeper’s Daughter, Certified Nutritional Practitioner and Dutchman’s Gold Partner 

As the warm rays of the summer sun continues to blanket the Canadian landscapes, nature's diligent workers, the honeybees, embark on their vibrant journey of pollination and honey production. The summer honey harvest is a time of celebration, not only for beekeepers but for all honey enthusiasts who appreciate the incredible nutritional qualities and diverse flavors of raw, unpasteurized honey varieties, such as wildflower and summer blossom, from the renowned Dutchman's Gold in Canada.  

Let’s explore the wonders of honey, its functional nutritional qualities, and the countless ways it can enrich our recipes and lives, all while supporting a sustainable planet. 

THE NUTRITIONAL POWERHOUSE: RAW, UNPASTEURIZED HONEY 

Raw, unpasteurized honey is the purest form of honey, bursting with essential vitamins, minerals, and beneficial enzymes. Unlike its processed counterparts, raw honey retains all its natural goodness, including B vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids [1]. This nutritional powerhouse becomes a natural remedy for various health concerns, ranging from soothing sore throats to aiding in digestive health [2]. Embracing raw honey not only delights your taste buds but also nourishes your body from the inside out. 

A SYMPHONEY OF FLAVORS: WILDFLOWER & SUMMER BLOSSOM HONEY 

The Canadian summer honey harvest brings forth an orchestra of flavors in honey varieties like wildflower and summer blossom. These honeys are a delicious reflection of the diverse and rich floral sources visited by the industrious bees. Wildflower honey carries the essence of meadows and forests, while summer blossom honey captures the essence of sun-kissed blooms. Each jar offers a unique taste experience, giving depth and character to your culinary creations. *Look for the unpasteurized versions to maximize nutritional profile.  

BEEHIVE GOODNESS FOR YOUR HEALTH 

The functional nutritional qualities of raw and/ or unpasteurized honey extend far beyond its delightful taste. Its natural antibacterial and antioxidant properties provide a support to your immune system and promote overall well-being [3]. Raw honey is also an excellent source of energy, making it a perfect pre or post-workout natural sweetener. Including honey in your daily routine can help maintain your health and vitality. 

FROM BREAKFAST TO DESSERT: VERSATILITY IN RECIPES

Summer honey harvest provides an abundance of honey to inspire your culinary creativity. Start your day with a dollop of raw honey on your morning toast or mix it into your yogurt bowl for a natural and nutritious sweetener. For a refreshing summer treat, drizzle honey over a bowl of seasonal fruits or add a dash of sweetness to your iced tea or patio beverage.  Use it in your marinades, dressings or a little teaspoon to your curry!  

Raw honey also plays a starring role in desserts, serving as a healthier alternative to refined sugars. From honey-infused cakes and cookies to honey-glazed roasted vegetables, the possibilities are endless. The richness of honey imparts a depth of flavor to both sweet and savory dishes, making it a versatile staple in your kitchen. 

THE BEE FRIENDLY PROMISE: SUPPORTING A SUSTAINABLE PLANET 

At Dutchman's Gold, we wholeheartedly embrace the Bee Friendly Promise ™, a commitment to supporting and protecting the vital honeybee populations and their ecosystems. As a second-generation owner of Dutchman's Gold and a beekeeper's daughter, I passionately advocate for the well-being of bees and the environment. By choosing honey from Bee Friendly ™-certified sources, you not only enjoy the delightful flavors and health benefits of honey but also contribute to the preservation of our planet's precious pollinators.  Yes!!!  

THE SWEETNESS OF SUMMER & THE BOUNTY FROM THE BEES

The summer honey harvest in Canada is a time to rejoice in the bounty of nature's nectar. Unpasteurized honey varieties like wildflower and summer blossom, or raw from Dutchman's Gold offer not only a symphony of flavors but also an abundance of functional nutritional qualities that nourish our bodies and enhance our recipes. From breakfast to dessert, honey adds a touch of sweetness and goodness to our lives. Moreover, by supporting Bee Friendly-Promise™ sources, we play a crucial role in safeguarding our environment for future generations. 

So, as you embark on your culinary adventures, let the golden goodness of honey infuse your recipes with natural sweetness and functional health benefits. Embrace the summer honey harvest and savor the delights it brings to your palate, all while spreading beehive goodness and contributing to a sustainable planet. 

REFERENCES: 

1. Al-Waili, N. S. (2011). Natural Honey Lowers Plasma Glucose, C-Reactive Protein, Homocysteine, and Blood Lipids in Healthy, Diabetic, and Hyperlipidemic Subjects: Comparison with Dextrose and Sucrose. Journal of Medicinal Food, 14(7-8), 733–740. 

1. Samarghandian, S., et al. (2017). Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research. Pharmacognosy Research, 9(2), 121–127. 

1. Mandal, M. D., & Mandal, S. (2011).Honey: Its Medicinal Property and Antibacterial Activity. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 1(2), 154–160. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Angela Van Alten/Ysseldyk is a second-generation entrepreneur and co-owner of Dutchman’s Gold.   She is the eldest daughter of John and Annie Van Alten, Dutchman's Gold founders.  Angela is a Certified Nutritional Practitioner and holds a degree in Business.  She has worked with some of Canada's top vitamin brands in various roles over the last 25 years, helping Canadians achieve optimal wellness.  Her mission is to empower people to have an extraordinary life, while spreading Beehive Goodness at Dutchman's Gold.