If we analyse the natural product honey in the lab, we find a number of measurable chemical substances.
In addition, legislation sets a number of requirements for honey.
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Substances found in the lab
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Average in %
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Water. The original nectar drunk by the bees contains up to 60% of water. The bees ensure that this amount is reduced to approximately 18% in honey. Honey containing too much water will be very thin and soft. Honey may legally contain up to 21% of water.
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Approx 18%
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Fructose. Also called fruit sugar. This monosaccharide provides immediate energy.
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38%
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Glucose. Also called grape sugar. This monosaccharide provides immediate energy. Combined, glucose and fructose have to account for at least 65%.
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31%
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Sucrose. Ordinary sugar. May legally not exceed 5%.
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1.3%
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Higher sugars specifically present in honey
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8.5%
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Vitamins & minerals
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present
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Ethereal oils and aromatic substances.
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present
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Antioxidants
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present
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The nutritional value of honey lies therefore in the fact that most sugars are monosaccharides, in other words: immediately available energy.
Hence, they do not have to be broken down in the stomach first. In addition, the presence of vitamins, minerals and other valuable substances is a nice plus.