How to Tell If Honey Is Raw, Unfiltered, or Pasteurized

The honey aisle can be confusing. Labels like raw, unpasteurized, unfiltered, and even pasteurized appear side by side — but they mean very different things.

Understanding these terms helps you choose honey that preserves its natural enzymes, antioxidants, and authentic taste. This guide explains:

• The difference between pasteurized honey vs unpasteurized honey
• Whether unpasteurized honey is the same as raw
• Why raw unfiltered honey is worth it
• How to tell what kind of honey you’re buying

What Does Pasteurized Honey Mean?

Pasteurized honey has been heated to high temperatures to make it clear, smooth, and resistant to crystallization. While it looks attractive, this heating process destroys many of the beneficial enzymes, antioxidants, and nutrients found in natural honey.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “is honey pasteurised?” — it often is, especially if purchased in large grocery chains.

What About Unpasteurized Honey?

Unpasteurized honey skips the high-heat treatment. It retains more nutrients and has a richer, more complex flavor. However, unpasteurized honey can still be lightly filtered or blended, so it isn’t always fully raw.

Is Unpasteurized Honey Raw Honey?

One common question is: “Is unpasteurized honey raw honey?”
Not always.

• Unpasteurized honey: not heated, but may still be processed or filtered.
• Raw honey: straight from the hive, minimally strained, and never heated.

For the purest option, look for raw and unpasteurized honey or raw unheated honey clearly labeled on the jar.

Key Differences: Pasteurized vs Raw Unpasteurized Honey

If you value honey for its health benefits, raw unpasteurized honey is the superior choice.

How to Identify the Type of Honey You Have

1. Check the Label

Look for “raw,” “unpasteurized,” or “unfiltered.” Words like “pure honey” alone don’t guarantee it’s raw.

2. Look at the Texture

Raw honey tends to crystallize over time, while pasteurized honey stays liquid longer.

3. Examine the Color

Raw honey is often darker and less transparent than pasteurized varieties.

4. Taste the Difference

Raw honey offers a more complex, floral flavor, compared to the uniform sweetness of pasteurized honey.

5. Consider the Source

Local beekeepers, farmers’ markets, and specialty brands are more likely to offer genuine raw and unpasteurized honey.

Does Honey Need to Be Pasteurized?

The short answer is no. Honey is naturally antibacterial and shelf-stable. Pasteurization is done for appearance and ease of bottling, not safety. Raw unheated honey remains safe to eat (though children under 1 year old should not consume any honey).

Why Raw and Unfiltered Honey Is Worth It

Choosing raw and unpasteurized honey means you’re getting honey as close to its natural state as possible — with more enzymes, antioxidants, and a richer taste.

Final Thoughts: Choose Honey As Nature Intended

When deciding between pasteurized honey vs unpasteurized honey, the choice is simple.For authentic flavor and maximum nutrition, pick honey that’s clearly labeled raw and unpasteurized.

Experience Real Honey With Pure Raw Brands

At Pure Raw Brands, we offer premium, unfiltered, raw and unpasteurized honey, harvested with care to preserve its natural goodness.

Shop now at www.purerawbrands.com and enjoy 15% off your first jar!

Taste honey the way nature intended.

FAQ: Common Questions About Raw and Pasteurized Honey

Q: Is honey always pasteurized in stores?

Not always, but most mass-produced supermarket honey is pasteurized unless labeled otherwise.

Q: How do you know if honey is pasteurized?

If it’s crystal clear, smooth, and stays liquid for a long time, it’s likely pasteurized. Check the label for confirmation.

Q: Does unpasteurized honey crystallize?

Yes — crystallization is natural and a good sign that your honey hasn’t been overheated or over-processed.

Q: Is raw honey better than pasteurized?

Yes — raw honey contains more antioxidants, enzymes, and beneficial compounds that pasteurization destroys.

Q: Can you eat unpasteurized honey safely?

Absolutely. It’s perfectly safe for healthy children (over 1 year old) and adults.

Q: Why does pasteurized honey look better?

The heating process makes honey clear, smooth, and uniform — but at the cost of nutritional quality.