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Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Honey is commonly used as a natural sweetener in a wide variety of foods, …
What it is
Honey is a sweet, viscous food substance made by honey bees from the nectar of flowers. Bees collect nectar and store it in their honeycombs, where it is processed and dehydrated to create honey. It is primarily composed of sugars, mostly fructose and glucose, along with water, enzymes, and other compounds.
Why it's used
Honey is commonly used as a natural sweetener in a wide variety of foods, including baked goods, cereals, and beverages. Its distinct flavor can also add complexity to sauces, marinades, and dressings. In some products, it may contribute to browning and moisture retention.
Health notes
Honey is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. It is primarily composed of sugars, and like other caloric sweeteners, excessive consumption can contribute to excess calorie intake. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that sugars should be limited in the diet. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated honey, but no specific numeric limits are set for its consumption as a sweetener.
Allergen info
Honey is not one of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.