Market Overview
The Global
Honey Market is anticipated to be valued at
USD 10.6 billion in 2024 and is further predicted to reach
USD 17.1 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 5.5 %.
Honey is highly valued in the market as it is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, calcium, & antioxidants, meeting the growing demand for healthy food choices as consumers focus on wellness. It is also known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties which is used as an effective remedy for coughs and throat infections. Bees create honey by collecting and storing honey in various honeycombs which is preserved for a long time due to its chemical composition. It is helpful in wound healing due to its antimicrobial properties by promoting tissue removal, and tissue regrowth which speed up the recovery process.
The growth of the honey market is due to the occurrence of diseases like diabetes, heart-related problems, and cancer as consumers are searching for immunity-boosting and health-promoting products. Benefits of honey include reducing blood sugar, and cholesterol and also improving lipid metabolism in the human body. This trend pushes manufacturers to meet the growing demand for healthy products like honey, driving the global industry.
Key Takeaways
- Market size: The Global Honey Market is expected to grow by USD 6.0 billion, at a CAGR of 5.5 % during the forecasted period of 2025 to 2033.
- Market Definition: Honey is a natural sweet substance produced by bees from the nectar of flowers which is a liquid.
- Processing Segment Analysis: Based on processing, the conventional segment is anticipated to lead the market with the largest market revenue share of 83.1% in 2024.
- Product Type Segment Analysis: Buckwheat honey as a product type is anticipated to dominate the global market with an increased market share of 33.1 % in 2024.
- Packaging Segment Analysis: Glass jar segment is predicted to experience notable growth with largest revenue share based on packaging throughout the forecasted period.
- Application Analysis: Food & Beverage as an application is predicted to lead the global market with a revenue share of 68.0% in 2024.
- By Distribution Channel: Based on the distribution channel, supermarket/hypermarket segments are expected to dominate the global market with the largest revenue share of 42.6 % in 2024.
- Regional Analysis: Europe is expected to dominate the honey market with a revenue share of 37.8 % in 2024.
Use Cases
- Skincare: Honey is used in homemade facial masks as it offers good moisturizing and antibacterial properties and also helps to hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy complexion.
- Haircare: Unfiltered honey is used as a nourishing hair mask by mixing it with natural ingredients like coconut oil or yogurt as it helps moisturize the hair, improves shine, and reduces fizziness.
- Health and Wellness: It has soothing properties which help in reducing sore throats and coughs, can also be used with herbal tea or warm water to prevent throat irritation as honey contains various minerals which promotes faster healing of cuts and burns due to its antibacterial properties.
- Sweeteners: It is a popular natural sweetener in many culinary recipes such as desserts, beverages, sauces, and dressings which adds depth to dishes and drinks.
- Preservation and Fermentation: Due to its antimicrobial properties, it is suitable for preserving certain foods and extends the shelf life of fruits, jams, and other perishables.
Market Dynamic
Drivers
Honey as a Natural Remedy and Medicinal IngredientThe rising demand for honey is due to its versatility and use in beverages, processed foods, jams, & beauty products. It is also used as a natural remedy and included in the development of medicine for treating coughs and throat infections due to its antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, which boost the growth of this market. It is also known for its ability to improve food and beverage flavors which contributes significantly to the demand for the product.
Health Benefits of Honey over Conventional Sweets
Honey is a healthier option compared to popular strawberry syrups and sweet chocolates as it doesn’t include any extra sugar and is pure. Consumers are encouraged to include natural sweeteners into their diets and use less white sugar due to growing awareness of health. The revenue of the honey market is also impacted by its extended shelf life and affordability, which are the drivers of market growth.
Restraints
Rising practice of adulteration and the introduction of new sweeteners
Growing production of adulterated honey in the market and the increase in honey fraud are restraining the growth of this market. Adulteration of honey decreases the demand and profit of good & pure honey, and also introduction of other alternatives like Stevia or Maple Syrup is gaining popularity which obstructs the growth of this market further.
Impact of Intensive Land Use on Bee Populations
Intensive land use from commercial honey production raises significant environmental concerns, which lead to a decline in global bee populations. As commercial beekeeping expands to meet increasing honey demand, bee populations may grow beyond natural levels, potentially reducing plant pollination and weakening global food supplies, which obstruct the growth of the market.
Opportunities
Utilization across Diverse Industries
Honey is becoming an essential ingredient in many sectors due to its nutritional advantages. It is used as a substitute for sugar or artificial sweeteners in food and beverages. It is used in the healthcare sector as cough syrups to alleviate congestion. Further, it is considered a natural remedy for skin conditions which leads major companies to include these to create beauty and cosmetic products, contributes the expansion of the market.
Consumer Shift towards Health-Conscious Choices
Honey is popular in many sectors like cosmetics and pharmaceuticals due to its herbal properties. Some scientific reports also confirm that its healing properties contribute to its market growth. Further, the introduction of organic honey products and increased investments in organic goods present attractive opportunities for market players. Organic honey is getting popular due to the disadvantages of chemically processed products as consumers are more health-conscious.
Trend
Innovative Product Launches
Honey manufacturers are continuously introducing innovative products to attract a growing number of consumers. For instance, Dabur launched a new line of honey-infused syrups and spreads that contain no added sugar, and offer a healthier alternative to traditional strawberry syrups and sugary chocolates.
Antibacterial properties of natural sweeteners
Rising health awareness among consumers encouraged the adoption of natural sweeteners like honey which reduce the consumption of white sugar. The antioxidant and antibacterial properties of honey make it a preferred choice. Also, the extended shelf life and affordability of these products significantly contribute to market growth.
Research Scope and Analysis
By Processing
The honey market is segmented into conventional and organic processing methods. Conventional sources of processing methods are expected to dominate the honey market with the largest revenue share of 83.1% in 2024, due to factors like affordable cost and broader availability compared to organic honey. This method involves heating honey to dissolve crystals, enhancing clarity, and filtration for particle removal, ensuring consistency and extended shelf. It plays an important role in the growth of honey production by offering improved efficiency, quality control, and market competitiveness. This method uses modern elements like technological advancements in honey extraction equipment, which smoothen the production process and increase output.
It helps in maintaining consistent honey flavor, texture, and purity, meeting both consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. There is a growing trend to include new flavors with tropical additions in conventional products to fulfill the demand evolving consumer preferences, which is expected to boost this segment. Also, investments in research and development drive innovation in beekeeping practices, leading to improved hive management, disease prevention, and sustainable honey production.
On the other hand, the organic sector is expected to grow during the forecasted period due to the increasing inclination towards healthy eating among millennials and adults. In addition, the growing population and rising adoption of honey sweeteners present significant growth opportunities for major players in the market.
By Product Type
Buckwheat honey is anticipated to dominate the honey market based on the product type with a revenue share of 33.1 % in 2024, due to its molasses-like taste suitable for those consumers who are searching for a more intense and flavorful honey option that is dark in color and strong. Acacia honey is known for its unique floral flavor, appealing to those consumers who enjoy a gentle and fragrant taste. Alfalfa honey is light in color and mild taste, appealing to those who prefer a subtle and delicate flavor in their honey. Also, wildflower honey is extracted from a mixture of nectar sources and provides a strong and complicated flavor profile preferred by consumers who are searching for rich honey used for diverse purposes. Clover honey is popular for its sweet flavor and is preferred for its classic and familiar honey taste.
By Application
Food & Beverage as an application is anticipated to dominate the honey market with a revenue share of 68.0% in 2024, due to its use as a natural sweetener and also help to improve flavor in many foods and beverages. Also, this segment is growing significantly due to honey’s medicinal properties which increases the demand in the pharmaceuticals and healthcare industry. Honey is widely adopted to improve flavors, serve as a natural preservative, and deliver health benefits which makes it a desirable product among a variety of food and drink applications, strengthening its leading position in this market segment.
The personal care segment is also significantly influencing the market due to its moisturizing and nourishment properties which are demanded in skincare and haircare items. People use honey for its potential to improve skin and hair health as makes skin smooth and moisturize.
In addition, the pharmaceutical segment is also anticipated to show a growth opportunity due to its antimicrobial features, making it a valuable component in cough syrups, wound dressings, and other healthcare uses.
By Packaging
Glass jars are anticipated to lead the honey market based on packaging with maximum revenue share in 2024, due to transparency which allows consumers to visually examine the color, clarity, and texture before buying, which is useful to those consumers who are searching for premium or artisanal honey products. Transparency of jar helps in building trust and confidence among consumers regarding the product qualities. These jars preserve the quality and freshness of ingredients for a longer time as they protect from oxygen and moisture, which contributes to the growth of this segment. These jars are airtight containers that prevent the transfer of flavors or odors and help maintain their original taste without being affected by external factors. Maintenance of purity and consistency of honey are two major factors influencing the growth of this segment. Bottle segment is predicted to experience notable growth throughout the forecasted period due to its availability in many shapes sizes, and ease of storage, along with its convenience for transportation, which contributes to their popularity in the market.
By Distribution Channel
Supermarket/ Hypermarket is expected to dominate the honey market with the largest revenue share of 42.6% in 2024, due to its extensive reach and convenience for consumers. These retailers offer many honey products from a known brand that serves diverse tastes, which contributes to the growth of the market. These retailers also provide an opportunity for customers to physically inspect products before making purchases, driving the growth of this segment. These retails are present in both urban and rural areas which make them suitable among consumers, fixing their position in this market.
Online retail stores provide convenience, improved product visibility, and home delivery services, which contribute to segment growth. Many consumers depend on online stores for product exploration as they provide different choices to return or exchange items if needed, enhancing customer satisfaction. Many companies choose to manufacture a range of honey products, such as royal jelly and wax, on online platforms because these platforms offer improved accountability in customer service.
The Global Honey Market Report is segmented based on the following
By Processing
By Product Type
- Buckwheat
- Alfalfa
- Acacia
- Wildflower
- Clover honey
- Others
By Application
- Food &Beverages
- Personal Care
- Pharmaceutical
- Others
By Packaging
- Glass Jar
- Bottle
- Tub
- Tube
- Others
By Distribution Channel
- Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets
- Convenience Stores
- Online Retailers
- Others
Regional Analysis
Europe market is expected to dominate the honey market
with a revenue share of 37.8 % in 2024. This is attributed to increasing disposable income, urbanization, and evolving lifestyles, and is projected to fuel product demand, contributing to overall market expansion. European honey market focuses on health awareness, advancements in honey processing techniques, and the growing market demand for premium honey products which play a significant role in its leading position within the honey market.
Robust production infrastructure and capabilities, increasing application of honey in many sectors, and consumer inclination towards natural and healthful products in this region contribute to the growth of this market.
Asia-Pacific is expected to be the second-largest growing region in 2024 due to the presence of established companies in this region and the constant expansion of the millennial demographic as they are eager to invest in healthier alternatives. A rise in the consumption of Honey and other natural sweeteners and an increase in its production are the main factors that favor regional market growth.
By Region
North America
Europe
- Germany
- The U.K.
- France
- Italy
- Russia
- Spain
- Benelux
- Nordic
- Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- India
- ANZ
- ASEAN
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Colombia
- Rest of Latin America
Middle East & Africa
- Saudi Arabia
- UAE
- South Africa
- Israel
- Egypt
- Rest of MEA
Competitive Landscape
Key market participants commonly employ strategies such as introducing new products and expanding through investments. Manufacturers and suppliers are focusing on logistical improvements and strengthening distribution channels as part of their business growth strategies. These initiatives are improving the product adoption rates among global consumers. The honey market is fragmented due to many participants, and it is anticipated that there will be moderate to intense competition among the companies. Key players in the global honey market are Beeyond the Hive, Barkman Honey LLC, Dabur India Ltd., Capilano Honey Ltd., and New Zealand Honey Co. Companies allocate resources toward R&D to introduce high-quality honey-based products such as Honey-infused beverages, snacks, and vinegar. Manufacturers are adopting different business strategies like producing locally to reduce costs.
Some of the prominent players in the global honey market are
- Beeyond the Hive
- Barkman Honey LLC
- Dabur India Ltd.
- Capilano Honey Ltd.
- New Zealand Honey Co.
- Streamland Biological Technology Ltd.
- Oha Honey LP
- Billy Bee Honey Products
- Little Bee Impex
- Dutch Gold Honey, Inc.
- Others
Recent Development
- In September 2023, Australian Rare, the high-end luxury lifestyle brand for serious gift-givers announced the arrival of their premium honey collection exclusively at Harrods.
- In October 2023, New Zealand-based “The True Honey Co” announced the China launch of a manuka honey product with the highest levels of MGO (methylglyoxal) and UMF (unique manuka factor) in the world.
- In March 2023, Bagrrys India introduced a novel product named Bagrry's Organic Wild Honey aims to enhance the overall experience of consuming 100% natural organic honey by providing a wholesome and nutritious solution.
- In March 2023, Dabur India announced its foray into the syrups and spreads category with the launch of ‘Dabur Honey Tasties’ which is launched in two flavors – Chocolate and Strawberry.
- In December 2022, MeliBio, headquartered in the United States, collaborated with organic food manufacturer Narayan Foods to launch its plant-based honey alternative in Europe under the Better Foodie Brand.
Report Details
| Report Characteristics |
| Market Size (2024) |
USD 10.6 Bn |
| Forecast Value (2033) |
USD 17.1 Bn |
| CAGR (2024-2033) |
5.5% |
| Historical Data |
2018 – 2023 |
| Forecast Data |
2024 – 2033 |
| Base Year |
2023 |
| Estimate Year |
2024 |
| Report Coverage |
Market Revenue Estimation, Market Dynamics, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and etc. |
| Segments Covered |
By Processing (Organic, & Conventional ), By Product Type (Alfalfa, Acacia, Wildflower, Buckwheat, Clover honey, Others), By Application (Food &Beverages, Personal Care, Pharmaceutical, Others), By Packaging (Glass Jar, Bottle, Tub, Tube, and Others), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retailers, and Others) |
| Regional Coverage |
North America – The US and Canada; Europe – Germany, The UK, France, Russia, Spain, Italy, Benelux, Nordic, & Rest of Europe; Asia- Pacific– China, Japan, South Korea, India, ANZ, ASEAN, Rest of APAC; Latin America – Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Rest of Latin America; Middle East & Africa – Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Africa, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, & Rest of MEA
|
| Prominent Players |
Beeyond the Hive, Barkman Honey LLC, Dabur India Ltd., Capilano Honey Ltd., New Zealand Honey Co., Streamland Biological Technology Ltd., Oha Honey LP, Billy Bee Honey Products, Little Bee Impex, Dutch Gold Honey, Inc., and Other Key Players |
| Purchase Options |
HVMN Inc., Thync Global Inc., Apple Inc., Fitbit Inc., TrackmyStack, OsteoStrong, The ODIN, Thriveport LLC, Muse, Moodmetric, and Other Key Players |
Frequently Asked Questions
The Global Honey Market size is estimated to have a value of USD 10.6 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 17.1 billion by the end of 2033.
Europe is expected to be the largest market share for the Global Honey Market with a share of about 37.8 % in 2024.
Some of the major key players in the Global Honey Market are Beeyond the Hive, Barkman Honey LLC, Dabur India Ltd., Capilano Honey Ltd., New Zealand Honey Co., and many others.
The market is growing at a CAGR of 5.5 percent over the forecasted period.