honey

Honey Export

Product Overview

Honey is a natural sweetener produced by bees from the nectar of flowers. It is valued worldwide for its natural sweetness, health benefits, and versatility in culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic applications. Nigerian honey, known for its rich flavor and natural purity, is increasingly in demand in international markets.

Honey is suitable for retail, industrial food production, bakery, beverages, and health and wellness products.


Forms & Packaging for Export

Honey can be exported in several forms:

  1. Raw/Unprocessed Honey: Pure, unfiltered honey retaining all natural nutrients.

  2. Filtered Honey: Cleaned and lightly processed for clarity while retaining natural flavor.

  3. Creamed Honey: Smooth, spreadable honey for retail and culinary use.

  4. Honey in Bulk: For industrial use in food and beverage manufacturing.

Standard Export Packaging:

  • 12–25 kg drums or pails (bulk)

  • 250g – 1kg jars (retail)

  • 500g – 1kg vacuum-sealed pouches

  • Custom labeling and packaging available for supermarkets and specialty stores


Quality Specifications

Parameter Standard Specification
Moisture Content ≤ 20%
Color Golden to amber, natural clarity
Taste & Aroma Characteristic floral taste, free from off-flavors
pH 3.5 – 4.5
HMF (Hydroxymethylfurfural) ≤ 40 mg/kg (fresh honey)
Sugar Content Fructose 38–42%, Glucose 30–35%
Purity Free from additives, artificial sweeteners, and contaminants
Microbial Limit Total Plate Count ≤ 10³ CFU/g
Pesticide Residue Compliant with EU/US export standards

Nutritional Value

Honey is nutrient-dense and provides:

  • Carbohydrates: 80–82% (natural sugars – fructose and glucose)

  • Proteins: Trace amounts (enzymes, amino acids)

  • Vitamins: B-complex vitamins (B2, B3, B5, B6)

  • Minerals: Calcium, Iron, Potassium, Magnesium

  • Antioxidants: Flavonoids and phenolic acids

Honey is also recognized for its health benefits, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.


Export Requirements

  1. Phytosanitary Certificate: Ensures honey is free from contaminants and pests.

  2. Food Safety Compliance: Must meet EU, FDA (USA), or other international food standards.

  3. Customs Documentation: Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

  4. Labeling Requirements: Include nutritional information, weight, production date, and best-before date.

  5. Quality Assurance: Third-party testing may be required for bulk shipments.


Uses of Honey

  • Culinary: Sweetener for beverages, bakery, desserts, and sauces.

  • Industrial: Ingredient in food processing, cosmetics, and natural health products.

  • Retail: Packaged for supermarkets, specialty stores, and e-commerce.

  • Medicinal: Natural remedy for sore throats, coughs, and wound healing.


Export Market Demand

Nigerian honey has strong demand in:

  • United States & Canada: Health food stores, organic food markets, and ethnic stores.

  • United Kingdom & Europe: Supermarkets, specialty honey markets, and gourmet food shops.

  • Middle East & Asia: Niche health and gourmet food sectors.


Storage & Shelf Life

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid moisture contamination.

  • Shelf Life: 24 months if properly sealed and stored.


Advantages of Exporting Honey

  • High global demand due to natural, healthy, and organic qualities.

  • Long shelf life with minimal storage requirements.

  • Versatile product with culinary, industrial, medicinal, and retail applications.

  • Can be exported in bulk or retail packaging to suit multiple markets.


HS Code for Export: 04090000 (Natural honey)


Contact Topnoch Export

Topnoch Export Limited

For inquiries, pricing, and bulk orders, contact Topnoch Export directly.