Total Honey Production in Brazil
Brazil produced 60,966 tons of honey in 2022, marking a historical peak. Honey production in Brazil has seen significant growth over the past five years, with a 46% increase compared to previous periods. This growth is largely due to the country鈥檚 diverse climates and flora, which favor honey production in various regions. Brazil ranks as the ninth-largest honey producer globally, contributing around 4% of the world鈥檚 honey.
Types of Honey Produced in Brazil
Brazil produces a wide variety of honey, thanks to its rich biodiversity. Some of the most notable types include:
- Eucalyptus Honey: Dark and rich in minerals, this honey is valued for its expectorant properties and is mainly produced in the South and Southeast regions.
- Orange Blossom Honey: Light and aromatic, this honey is a favorite for its floral scent and is produced in S茫o Paulo and Minas Gerais.
- Cip贸-uva Honey: Known for its transparency and floral taste, it is mainly produced in the Cerrado biome.
- Assa-peixe Honey: Light and clear, this honey is harvested across the North, Southeast, and Midwest regions.
- Aroeira Honey: Dark and highly valued for its medicinal properties, primarily produced in Minas Gerais.
Brazil also produces multifloral honey, which is commonly labeled as “wild honey” and reflects the variety of plants blooming in different regions.
Honey Formats in Brazil
Brazilian honey is available in several formats to meet both domestic and international market demands:
- Bulk Honey: The majority of honey is exported in bulk, particularly to the United States, which accounts for 70% of exports.
- Retail Packaging: Honey is also sold in smaller retail-friendly formats such as glass jars and plastic containers, typically for local and international consumers.
Honey Export from Brazil
Brazil is a significant player in the global honey export market. In 2021, the country exported 47,000 tons of honey, generating $163 million in revenue, marking a 76% increase from the previous year. The United States is the largest market for Brazilian honey, followed by European countries. The Brazilian states of Piau铆 and Santa Catarina are the leading honey exporters.
Special Characteristics of Brazilian Honey
Brazil is one of the world鈥檚 largest producers of organic honey, accounting for nearly 90% of global organic honey production. The country鈥檚 biodiversity, which includes 250 species of stingless bees, contributes to the unique flavors and medicinal qualities of its honey. Many Brazilian beekeepers use sustainable methods, integrating beekeeping with other agricultural activities, such as orange and coffee farming.
Challenges Facing the Brazilian Apiculture Sector
The honey industry in Brazil faces several challenges, including:
- Climate Conditions: Droughts in certain regions, such as the Northeast, have affected honey production in recent years.
- Market Competition: Like many countries, Brazil must compete with lower-cost honey producers globally, which can influence pricing on the international market.
Conclusion
Brazil is a major global player in honey production and export, particularly known for its organic and multifloral honey. The country鈥檚 focus on sustainability and high-quality production has allowed it to thrive in the international honey market, despite the challenges posed by climate and global competition. With its diverse ecosystems, Brazil is well-positioned to continue growing its honey industry.
