Ricky's Bees

FAQs

1. Is your honey raw?

Yes — our honey is raw Australian honey. It is only lightly strained and gently kept around natural hive temperature (approximately 35°C) to assist with bottling, without heavy processing or pasteurisation. This helps keep the honey as close to how it is naturally found in the hive as possible.

2. What's the difference between raw and pasteurised honey?

  • Raw honey: Natural, may crystallise faster, retains more beneficial compounds.
  • Pasteurised honey: Gently heated to improve clarity and shelf life, but may lose some natural properties.

3. Why has my honey crystallised?

Crystallisation is completely natural and a sign of quality. It happens when glucose separates from water.

To return it to liquid, place the jar in warm (not boiling) water and stir gently.

4. Does honey expire?

Honey doesn't spoil if stored properly. It may change colour or crystallise over time, but it remains safe to eat.

5. Where does your honey come from?

Our honey producers specify the region, floral source and beekeeper practices. We only source Victoria.

6. What is the difference between Manuka and regular honey?

Manuka honey comes from bees that pollinate the Manuka bush (native to Australia and New Zealand). It's known for higher antibacterial properties and often carries a rating system such as MGO or UMF.

7. Do you add sugar to your honey?

Absolutely not 🐝🍯

Ricky's Bees honey is 100% pure Australian honey — nothing added, ever. That means no sugar, no syrups, and no fillers of any kind. What you taste in each jar is exactly what the bees have naturally created.

We also keep each honey variety true to its own natural character, so we don't mix different honeys together to create a certain colour, texture, or flavour. Every jar reflects the unique blossoms the bees have foraged.

8. Is honey safe for children?

Honey should not be given to infants under 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism. It is safe for older children and adults.

9. What do the different colours mean?

Honey colour depends on floral source:

  • Light (e.g. River Bloom) - mild, delicate flavour
  • Amber (e.g. Golden Morning) - balanced and aromatic
  • Dark (e.g. Wild Forest) - stronger, richer flavour

Darker honeys often contain higher antioxidant levels.

10. Is local honey better for allergies?

Some people believe local honey may help with seasonal allergies due to trace pollen exposure, though scientific evidence is limited.

11. How should honey be stored?

Keep tightly sealed at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration as it speeds up crystallisation.

12. Is your honey sustainably produced?

We look for beekeepers who prioritise:

  • Ethical hive management
  • Bee health and biodiversity
  • Minimal processing
  • No added sugars or syrups