FAQ's

If you have questions regarding honeybees or our products then ask using the contact form

I think we have seen a Yellow Legged (Asian) Hornet.  What should I do?

These pests were accidentally introduced into southwest France and have since spread across France and into all neighbouring countries, and have now arrived in large numbers in South East England (with a few sightings elsewhere).  They prey heavily on all pollinators and flying insects, including honeybees.  A honeybee colony presents an easily accessible, ready-made larder full of tasty food.  They capture their prey in flight and head back to their nest to feed their larvae.   This is an invasive species and is reportable to the authorities so that they can track and trace it back to its origin and subsequently destroy the nest.  To identify your sighting, just follow the information on the dedicated page here.  

My honey has granulated, is it still okay to eat?

Absolutely yes.  Granulation is a sign of pure honey; it is proof that you have quality pure honey.  Granulated honey can easily be restored to a liquid state using the following method: 

• Loosen the lid and set the jar in hot water, preferably on a stand so the water surrounds the jar.   

• Heat very gently until the honey becomes liquid. 

• Avoid using the microwave oven, even on the lowest setting, as this will destroy all the beneficial enzymes in the honey.

Is honey safe for babies?

No, honey is not suitable for infants under 12 months

How should I store honey?

The best way to keep honey from granulating is to store it at room temperature. The ideal storage place is in a dark cupboard away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as cooler temperatures will cause the honey to granulate more quickly.

How long will an opened jar of honey keep for?

Pure honey contains natural preservatives, which means it can last indefinitely.  Did you know that honey was discovered in the pyramids and remained as good as the day it was found, as it was on the day it was buried there?

Is Manuka honey really as good as they claim?

Pure honey is packed with nutrients, featuring a relatively healthy blend of sugars, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a unique natural remedy linked to numerous health benefits, from heart health to wound healing. The health benefits of honey include: 

• Being a rich source of antioxidants 

• Acting as a cough suppressant

• Treating a sore throat

• Treating burns and wound healing

• Improving heart health

• Helping to reduce blood pressure

• Strengthening the immune system

The levels of nutrients and antibacterial properties can vary from one type of honey to another, making some more effective than others. Did you know that more Manuka honey is sold around the globe than is actually produced? Unless the honey carries the official New Zealand seal on the label, then it is not 100% manuka honey.  Claims that Manuka is better than locally produced honey are difficult to prove.

We have a swarm on our property. What should we do?

Swarming is the natural way that honeybees and other colonial flying insects, such as ants, propagate.  Honeybees, when swarming, are usually docile and unlikely to sting you, but even a small swarm can sound noisy and be distressing.  However, we suggest you do not disturb them and leave them for a qualified beekeeper to collect.  

To help identify if you have a honeybee swarm and to locate a swarm collector near you, visit the British Beekeepers Association Swarm Removal website.