Alfalfa Honey

Honey

Definition

A light-colored, mildly sweet honey produced by bees foraging on alfalfa (Medicago sativa) blossoms. Alfalfa honey is one of the most widely produced honey varieties in the United States, particularly in western and midwestern states where alfalfa is grown as livestock feed.

Flavor and Characteristics

Alfalfa honey is known for its delicate, slightly floral flavor with gentle herbal undertones. It is lighter in color than most wildflower honeys, ranging from nearly white to light amber. The mild taste makes it one of the most versatile table honeys, pairing well with tea, toast, yogurt, and baked goods without overpowering other flavors.

Because of its relatively high glucose content, alfalfa honey tends to crystallize faster than some other varieties. This is not a defect. Crystallized alfalfa honey has a smooth, creamy texture that many people prefer for spreading.

Production and Availability

Alfalfa is grown on millions of acres across the western United States, primarily for hay and livestock feed. The purple blossoms produce abundant nectar during summer months, making alfalfa one of the top honey-producing crops in the country.

However, the availability of true monofloral alfalfa honey has declined in recent decades as farmers increasingly cut alfalfa before it blooms, reducing the nectar source for bees. Pure alfalfa honey is becoming more of a specialty product as a result.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does alfalfa honey taste like?

Alfalfa honey has a mild, slightly floral sweetness with gentle herbal notes. It is one of the lightest-tasting honeys and works well as an everyday table honey because it does not overpower other flavors.

Why does alfalfa honey crystallize quickly?

Alfalfa honey has a higher glucose-to-fructose ratio than many other varieties. Glucose crystallizes faster than fructose, so honeys with more glucose tend to solidify sooner. This is natural and does not affect quality.

Is alfalfa honey good for allergies?

Some people use local honey for seasonal allergy support, but alfalfa honey would only be relevant if alfalfa pollen is a local allergen. For allergy purposes, honey harvested from your specific region is generally recommended.