Buying local honey supports beekeepers. Plus, it’s great for the environment.  No one wants to deal with the middle-man, and that’s why I love my farmers market.   Beekeepers travel from upstate New York and from right here in NYC to sell at local markets throughout the Five Boroughs.  We have Beekeepers on rooftops and in many urban backyards.  Locals areas like Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx and all over.  Many of them like Brooklyn Grange and Bronx Bees offer programs to help others. You will also find local honey at Whole Foods. 

I purchased this bottle of raw honey from my local market at Union Square Greenmarket, and the beekeeper is Andrzej Kurosz from Warwick, NY.  Sweet Things Wild Thyme and Honey is raw, chemical free, and pure. 

Compared to other sweeteners, raw honey contains a variety of vitamins and minerals.  It is a potent anti-infection/anti-inflammatory bee product, which is a natural option to antibiotics. Plus, it is also great for building up your resistance to allergens.  I’ve already started taking a teaspoon a day and I sprinkle some bee pollen in my food as well.  The pollen is the male seed of flowers and it’s also rich in vitamins and minerals.  But get this, bee pollen is rich in protein.

In addition to that, taking bee pollen may reduce the presence of histamine, which can ameliorate many allergies. It works for me.  Around springtime my allergies starts to act up. My eyes are irritated, I sneeze constantly, and I basically feel and look like crap.  

Last year, I started taking the bee pollen and it really build up my tolerance and reduced my attacks. You might want to research it. Also, if you’re allergic to bee stings or have sensitivities to foods, it’s best you consult with an alternative medical doctor or any other qualified healthcare professional before trying bee pollen. 

Go out and support your local farm, and don’t forget the local beekeeper. 

Resources: Bronx Bees, Brooklyn Grange Farm, Bee Pollen As A Superfood, New York City Beekeepers Association