Tu3, Oak Honey
|
|
The honey
Oak honey is one of Türkiye’s valuable honeydew honeys. In June and July, temperature differences between day and night cause secretions to form on oak leaves, which are collected by honeybees, transported to the hive, and transformed into honey. The result is a dark-colored honey with a strong aroma and rich in phenolic compounds.
Unlike nectar honeys, oak honey is produced not from flower nectar but from special secretions found on the trunk and leaves of oak trees (Quercus spp.), making it distinct from other honey varieties. Honey Characteristics: Color: Shades ranging from dark red to brown. Odor: Sharper, more distinctive, and aromatic compared to other honeys. Taste: Slightly bitter with high viscosity. Aroma: Intense and robust aroma. Geographical Indications and Scientific Studies: To promote our oak honey and ensure its scientifically based characterization, a joint study has been launched with the Ordu Apiculture Research Institute Directorate. Within the scope of the project titled “Characterization of Oak and Lavender Honeys Produced in Türkiye”, all properties of oak honey will be examined in detail, enabling it to have a stronger presence in national and international markets. In Türkiye, Kırklareli Oak Honey currently stands out as the only oak honey with geographical indication registration. Why Turkish Oak Honey? Scientific research has shown that oak honey may support the treatment of rheumatic diseases. It has been found to help strengthen the immune system and to be effective against upper respiratory tract infections and digestive system disorders. Because of its medicinal biological activity, it is among our valuable honeys that can be used in apitherapy applications. Scientific data have revealed that, in terms of health benefits, Turkish oak honey possesses far superior qualities compared to similar honeys sold at high prices worldwide. More academic research and international publications are needed for our oak honey to be fully appreciated and to secure its rightful place in international markets. The beekeeping
Türkiye’s Beekeeping Potential:
• Türkiye is home to 13,414 plant taxa, 4,319 of which are endemic. • In addition, there are more than 600 medicinal plant species. This rich flora allows bee products produced in Türkiye to have a high phenolic and flavonoid content. • Of the 27 honey bee species found worldwide, 6 are present in Türkiye. • With 8.9 million beehives, Türkiye ranks 3rd in the world. • The country has the potential for beekeeping activities to be carried out for up to 9 months of the year. • In honey production, Türkiye ranks 2nd in the world with an annual production of 95,492 tonnes. • There are 97,984 registered beekeeping enterprises in the country. Production Area: Oak honey production is concentrated in forest-rich provinces such as Balıkesir, Çanakkale, and Kırklareli. Production Season: Collection of oak acorn secretions begins in late June and continues until September, with July and August being the most productive months for oak honey production. |
