What Is White Honey?

Honey has been harvested throughout history to satisfy the sweet tooth of many people who enjoy it on breads and cereals or in coffee and tea. There are many types of honey found throughout the world, not only just the amber variety most Americans find on their grocery store shelves. One of these is known as "white honey."

White Honey

As its name suggests, white honey appears milk white, but also other grades of white honey appear clear, leading to their classification of "water-white." As such, honeys of all colors are labeled on a scale that ranks them by their color; water-white earns a zero since its colorless while regular white honey is graded from 10 to 30, depending on the purity of its whiteness. Both water-white and white honeys have a less robust flavor than that of honeys derived from clovers. They also have a creamier, less-syrupy texture than that of clover honeys.

Cultivation

Kiawe trees are native to the islands of the Pacific, specifically the Hawaiian Islands. These tall trees produce large blooms that are the source for white honey. It is quite difficult to extract the honey from the blossoms, as workers must scale the trees or use ladders when necessary. This difficult extraction process drives up the price of the honey when it goes to market. Due to its rarity, a typical 8 oz jar of white or water-white honey usually retails for around the $20 to $40 range, depending on its availability.

The Business Of White Honey

Former layer turned beekeeper Richard Spigel moved to Hawaii's Big Island in the 1970s to nurse a wound and immersed himself in the culture and foods of the land. Along with his wife Laura, Spigel began building a side business based around extracting white honey from the Kiawe blossoms. Since that time, selling white honey has grown into a full-time business. According to the Spigel's website, Volcano Island Honey.com, National Geographic Traveler once named white honey among the best in the world.

Taste & Other Uses

The lighter color and source of the white honey contributes not only to its color but also its subtle taste. Still, white honey is desired in baking. According to the National Honey Board, honey is hygroscopic, meaning it brings moisture without drying out flours and other ingredients used in baked goods like sweet breads, muffins and cakes. White honey sweetens but doesn't overpower the taste of these and other goods, making it a baking possibility for those who desire natural sweetness without a strong taste.