Honey bees are the only insect that produces food eaten by man. In the 17th century honey was used to prepare food and beverages, to make cement, to preserve fruits, used in furniture polish and vanish, and for medicinal purposes. Bees also provide venom, which is used as medicine. Bees were used in warfare. Hives were thrown among enemy troops to rout them.
Bakers frequently use honey in place of sugar.
Many infant foods, cough medicines and laxatives contain honey. Honey is the only sweet that is not manufactured. Athletes use honey as a concentrated source of energy. Honey is one of our safest foods since bacteria can not grow in honey. Honey contains no fat and is pure because no other ingredients are added.