Pasteurised vs Unpasteurised Honey: What’s the Difference & Which One is Better?

Honey is one of nature’s sweetest gifts. But not all honey is created same. Have you ever wondered what happens to your honey before it reaches your jar?

Some honey goes through a process called pasteurisation. Whereas, others remain raw and unpasteurised. But what does this mean for you? Does pasteurisation take away the goodness of honey, or does it make it better?

If you’re unsure which type of honey is the best choice. Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between pasteurised and unpasteurised honey, their benefits, and which one is the better pick for your health and taste buds.

Let’s begin.

What is Pasteurised Honey?

If you’ve ever bought honey that stays smooth and runny for months, chances are it’s pasteurised honey. But what does that really mean?

Pasteurisation is a process where honey is heated to high temperatures (around 70°C or more) and then quickly cooled.

This is done in a controlled facility to:

(✓) Kill natural yeasts that could cause fermentation

(✓) Prevent crystallisation. So, the honey stays silky and liquid

(✓) Extend shelf life and make it look more visually appealing

It may sound like a good thing. But here’s the catch. High heat strips away many of honey’s natural benefits. Pasteurisation destroys essential enzymes, antioxidants, and nutrients. This reduces the health-boosting properties that make raw honey so special. Not to mention, it also dulls the rich, floral flavours that come from different nectar sources.

What is Unpasteurised Honey?

Ever heard people raving about raw honey? There’s a good reason why.

Unpasteurised honey, often called raw honey, is only slightly heated during processing, which helps the honey to retain many of its nutritional properties.

But did you know there’s a slight difference between raw honey and unpasteurised honey?

Unpasteurised honey is gently processed but not exposed to high heat. So, it still keeps most of its natural goodness. Whereas, raw honey is completely untouched. This means no heat, no filtration, and no processing at all. This keeps all the natural components like bee pollen, royal jelly, beeswax, and propolis, which are packed with health benefits.

Because of its thick and creamy texture, raw honey is perfect for spreading on toast, adding into smoothies, or drizzling over desserts. Additionally, it has a naturally rich flavour that varies depending on the nectar source.

Benefits of Unpasteurised Honey | Why It’s So Good for You?

Many of the health benefits of honey come from its raw, natural state. Here’s why unpasteurised honey is the better choice:

(✓) Supports Digestion – Contains enzymes that help break down food.

(✓) Rich in Antioxidants – Protects your body from free radical damage.

(✓) Natural Antibacterial & Antifungal Properties – Helps fight infections.

(✓) Boosts the Immune System – Strengthens your body’s natural defences.

(✓) Retains Unique Floral Flavours – Unlike processed honey, it keeps its original taste.

(✓) Research suggests that raw honey can even help reduce cholesterol, support heart health, improve wound healing, and soothe coughs. This is due to the presence of an enzyme called glucose oxidase. This gives honey its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Unfortunately, this enzyme is destroyed when honey is heated or filtered.

Explore more about > benefits of raw honey

Raw Honey is Packed with Natural Goodness

Unlike pasteurised honey, raw and unpasteurised honey is loaded with beneficial components, such as:

(✓) Bee Pollen – Rich in antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It’s been linked to anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and even pain-relieving effects.

(✓) Bee Propolis – A resin-like substance used by bees to protect their hives. Studies suggest it has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and even anti-cancer properties.

(✓) Essential Vitamins & Minerals – Contains small amounts of B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, and calcium.

(✓) Enzymes & Amino Acids – Help with digestion and overall health.

Since pasteurisation destroys or removes many of these natural elements, unpasteurised honey is a much better choice if you’re looking for both flavour and nutrition.

So, why settle for processed honey when you can have the real deal?

At Swan Valley Honey, all our honey is 100% unpasteurised. We keep it as pure and beneficial as possible.

Pasteurised vs Unpasteurised Honey: Key Differences

Read more about > raw vs. fake honey

How to Identify Real Unpasteurised Honey?

Not all honey labeled as “raw” is truly unpasteurised. Some brands may still heat or process their honey while keeping the “raw” tag. The key difference is that real unpasteurised honey remains in its pure, natural state, without high heat or heavy filtration. This means it still contains bee pollen, royal jelly, beeswax, and propolis. All packed with nutrients and health benefits!

Since unpasteurised honey retains all its natural goodness, it has a thicker, creamier texture. But how can you tell if your honey is raw or unpasteurised? Here’s what to look for:

(✓) Crystallisation – Authentic, pure honey may crystallise over time. Whereas, pasteurised honey stays liquid

(✓) Cloudy appearance – Unpasteurised honey may have small bits of pollen and wax which make it slightly cloudy

(✓) Rich aroma and taste – You’ll notice a strong, natural fragrance and distinct flavour

(✓) Sourced from trusted beekeepers – Always check the source. A reliable honey supplier, like Swan Valley Honey, ensures you get 100% unpasteurised, Western Australian honey.

Conclusion: Which Honey Should You Choose?

When it comes to honey, natural is always better.

Pasteurisation may make honey smoother and extend its shelf life. But it removes many of the beneficial enzymes, nutrients, and antioxidants that make honey so good for you.

Studies suggest that raw honey is rich in flavonoids & phenolic acids. They act as powerful antioxidants and help combat oxidative stress, which has been linked to various chronic conditions, including cancer. Plus, the exact antioxidant content varies depending on the flowers the bees pollinate, making every jar of raw honey unique!

If you’re looking for a healthier, more natural, and nutrient-rich option, unpasteurised honey is the clear winner.

Here’s why:

(✓) It’s 100% pure and raw, just as nature intended.

(✓) It retains all of its natural antioxidants and enzymes.

(✓) It provides antibacterial and immune-boosting benefits.

(✓) It tastes better and is unique in every batch.

(✓) Naturally preserved; may crystallise, but that’s a sign of purity! Just warm it gently to liquefy

While pasteurised honey may last longer and look smoother, it lacks the richness, nutrients, and benefits that make honey truly special.

So next time you’re shopping for honey, choose raw honey that’s straight from the hive.

Wondering where to find pure unpasteurised honey?

Find the Best Raw Honey in Perth at Swan Valley Honey

We believe in keeping things natural, raw, and pure. Just the way nature intended. If you’re searching for honey for sale, it’s always best to choose high-quality, raw honey Perth.

At Swan Valley Honey, we specialise in 100% raw, unpasteurised honey sourced from the pristine bushlands of Western Australia. Our honey is:

(✓) Unprocessed – No heat treatment, additives, or artificial processing.

(✓) Single-origin – Including Jarrah Honey, Karri Honey, Redgum Honey, and Wildflower varieties.

(✓) Full of nutrients – Naturally rich in antioxidants and antibacterial properties.

(✓) Delicious and unique – Each jar carries a one-of-a-kind flavour profile.

Get Your Hands on Pure, Unpasteurised Honey Today

Check out our range of raw honey

Shop Raw Honey Now & Enjoy the Sweetness of Nature

FAQs

Q1: Is raw honey the same as organic honey?

Not necessarily. Raw honey means it’s unpasteurised and unprocessed, keeping all its natural nutrients intact. On the other hand, organic honey follows specific farming guidelines. But it can still be pasteurised. If you’re looking for honey in its purest form, always check the label for the word “raw”. It’s the best way to confirm you’re getting unprocessed, nutrient-rich honey.

Q2: Is unpasteurised honey healthier than pasteurised honey?

Absolutely! Unpasteurised honey retains its natural enzymes, antioxidants, and nutrients, while pasteurisation exposes honey to high heat, reducing its health benefits. If you want honey that’s as close to nature as possible, unpasteurised is the way to go.

Q3: Which type of honey is the healthiest?

For maximum health benefits, choose raw, unpasteurised honey. It’s packed with antioxidants, natural enzymes, and antibacterial properties. Thus, making it a great choice for both wellness and flavour.

Q4: Is it safe to eat raw, unpasteurised honey?

Yes! Raw honey is completely safe for most people. It is actually preferred by those looking for more health benefits. However, it’s not recommended for infants under one year old or individuals with severely weakened immune systems.

Q5: How is raw honey different from regular honey?

The biggest difference is processing. Raw honey is unheated and retains all its natural goodness. Whereas, regular (pasteurised) honey is heated and filtered, making it smoother but stripping away some nutrients and antioxidants. Raw honey also crystallises over time, which is a sign of purity, while pasteurised honey stays runny longer due to processing.