Relatively little data on such commercial markets exist. The following sections briefly summarize the information available to date. Honey and by products Consumer demand for honey is increasing as the public moves toward healthier, more natural foods. Honey is a sweet, sticky substance produced by the common honeybee, by using nectar gathered from flowers. Consumers may use honey as a food product alone or as a sugar substitute.
Honeybees also produce beeswax and other byproducts, such as bee pollen and royal jelly.
Beeswax is used in candles, polishes and cosmetics. Many commercial bee-keepers establish hives in recently burned or logged areas to produce fireweed honey. This honey has a unique flavor and is highly sought after. Syrup Maple syrup is a sugary, sweet liquid produced by boiling the sap of maple trees. Smoke woods Wood smoke from tree species such as alder, apple and cherry is often used in smokehouses, home barbecues or restaurants to enhance the flavor of food.