Market Trends of Packaged Honey Industry
Conventional Honey Is Consumed Globally
The demand for conventional honey remains strong, driven by its health benefits, natural appeal, and versatility in various applications. Honey consumption lowers blood sugar levels, reduces cholesterol, and improves lipid metabolism. Thus, consumers are shifting toward natural alternatives over artificial sweeteners. In addition, functional or fortified honey, enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and superfoods such as turmeric or ginger, is becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious individuals seeking superior nutritional value. Therefore, companies are launching products to cater to consumers' demands. For instance, in June 2022, Frangiosa Farms, renowned for its Colorado Hemp Honey, introduced a new product line under its Bee Shepherd Brand, featuring artisanal adaptogenic and herbal-infused honey. This line, crafted with raw honey and USDA-certified organic adaptogens like Lion’s Mane and Reishi Mushrooms, is formulated to help the body manage stress, anxiety, and fatigue. The raw honey collection also includes antioxidant-rich Black Elderberry, immune-boosting Golden Turmeric, and Wildflower Unfiltered varieties.
Asia-Pacific Dominates the Market
The honey market in China is witnessing robust growth, fueled by a surge in both production and sales of natural honey. This uptick in honey consumption outpacing other sweeteners underscores the vitality of the market and its immense growth potential. Moreover, with its population growth outpacing domestic consumption by over 300,000 metric tons annually, the honey surplus in China is three times the volume exported to other nations. According to the National Bureau of Statistics of China, the Annual production volume of honey in China rose from 444.1 thousand metric tons in 2019 to 463.5 thousand metric tons in 2023.
Japan relies heavily on honey imports, primarily from nations such as China and Canada. According to the UN Comtrade, Japan imported USD 167.67 million of honey in 2022. Honey holds a significant place in Japanese cuisine and is often featured in traditional dishes. Notably, as Japanese dietary habits shift towards European influences, with breakfasts now commonly incorporating honey alongside cheese and other elements, the demand for honey products within Japan is on the rise.
India boasts a rich history of beekeeping, cementing its position as a prominent leader in the honey market. Moreover, the government launched various initiatives to promote the Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM), which provides training, financial assistance, and resources to beekeepers. According to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization), India produced 74.2 thousand metric tons of natural honey in 2022. Thus, the support enhances productivity and encourages more people to engage in beekeeping, boosting honey production.
