Ingredient

Honey

Positive in 63 products

What is Honey?

Honey is a natural sweetener produced by bees from the nectar of flowers. It is collected from beehives and minimally processed to preserve its natural properties.

It is used in various foods for its sweetness and flavor, as well as in skincare products for its purported moisturizing effects. Honey contains small amounts of antioxidants and micronutrients, although it is primarily composed of sugars.

When you see honey on a label, it's often valued for being less processed than refined sugars. However, it is still high in sugar and should be consumed in moderation.

Commonly found in: baked goods, teas, sauces, cereal bars, cosmetics

What to watch

Honey is high in natural sugars, which can contribute to calorie intake and impact blood sugar levels.

Benefits

Honey provides small amounts of antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress.

FDA

Honey is generally recognized as safe by the FDA when used as a food ingredient.

Research

While honey has some antioxidant properties, evidence is mixed on its overall health benefits compared to other sweeteners.

Vegan

Honey is an animal-derived product; thus, it is typically not considered vegan.

Sources: Overview of Honey's Composition and Benefits

Scout's take

Traditional whole-food sweetener with trace enzymes and antioxidants.

The case against

High sugar content can contribute to increased blood sugar levels if consumed in excess.

from the analysis of Simple Mills Honey Cinnamon Sweet Thins · echoed in 2 other analyses

Excessive consumption can contribute to high sugar intake and related health issues.

from the analysis of Rise, SNICKER DOODLE PROTEIN BAR · echoed in 2 other analyses

High in sugars, which can contribute to calorie intake and affect blood sugar levels if consumed in excess.

from the analysis of Equip Prime Protein Chocolate

High sugar content can contribute to increased calorie intake and potential weight gain.

from the analysis of Stater Bros oats and honey granola

High in calories and sugars, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

from the analysis of girl scouts peanut butter patties

The case for

Contains antioxidants and provides a natural source of sweetness.

from the analysis of Simple Mills Crackers Sweet Thin Honey · echoed in 1 other analysis

Contains antioxidants and may have antimicrobial properties.

from the analysis of Member's Mark HONEY ALMOND GRANOLA · echoed in 1 other analysis

Provides natural sweetness with additional health benefits such as antioxidants and antimicrobial properties.

from the analysis of Equip Prime Protein Chocolate

Contains antioxidants and trace nutrients, supporting immune health and providing natural sweetness.

from the analysis of Simple Mills Honey Cinnamon Sweet Thins

Contains antioxidants and nutrients that may provide health benefits when consumed in moderation.

from the analysis of Nature's Path PREMIUM ORGANIC GRANOLA

More from Scout's analyses

The only sweetener in the can — a traditional whole-food sweetener, never cane sugar, HFCS, stevia or monk fruit.

from the analysis of Goldie Classic Lemonade Manuka Sweetened

Honey is a natural sweetener with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It is less processed than refined sugars and contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals. Honey can provide a quick source of energy and may have health benefits when consumed in moderation.

from the analysis of Powerfit Foods Bare Bar

Honey is a natural sweetener that provides some antioxidants and has a more natural profile compared to refined sugars.

from the analysis of Cascadian Farm Organic Oats and Honey Granola - 11oz