Strawberry Tree Honey

Mas Entreserra's Strawberry Tree Honey is a raw, artisanal monofloral honey, harvested exclusively in the Baix Empordà, a Mediterranean region in Catalonia rich in strawberry trees and wild flora. As a family business with over 25 years of experience, we produce this honey using a cold extraction process, never heating it, to preserve its enzymes, vitamins, and natural properties. With the "Venda de Proximitat" label awarded by the Departament d'Agricultura, Ramaderia, Pesca i Alimentació of the Generalitat de Catalunya, we guarantee a local, sustainable, and top-quality product.

The properties of strawberry tree honey are exceptional due to its origin in the nectar of strawberry tree flowers (Arbutus unedo), rich in arbutin, flavonoids, polyphenols, and phenolic acids, according to studies published in "Antioxidants" (2020) and "Food Chemistry" (2019). It is high in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and reduce cardiovascular risks, as demonstrated in PubMed reviews (2022). Its antibacterial properties, derived from hydrogen peroxide and phenolic compounds, are effective against bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, according to University of Cardiff research (2018). It is especially recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties for the urinary tract, supported by studies showing efficacy against infections like cystitis. It also has protective effects against colon cancer, thanks to arbutin that inhibits malignant cell growth, as indicated in oncological research. For colds, it reduces cough better than some medications, according to Cochrane Library (2017). It is digestive, relieving stomach discomforts, and its bitterness makes it ideal for people who enjoy black coffee, enhancing bitter flavors without added sugar. On the skin, its healing and antimicrobial properties help cure wounds and reduce acne, as shown in dermatological studies.

Flavor and Culinary Uses

The flavor is bitter and intense, with floral, red fruit notes, and a persistent finish, depending on the strawberry tree flowers from Baix Empordà. The color varies from dark amber to reddish, and the aroma is earthy and evocative of humid forest.

Culinary uses: It is perfect for black coffee, enhancing bitterness without sweeteners. In cooking, it pairs with cured cheeses like roquefort for bitter-sweet contrast, in sauces for roasted meats like lamb with strawberry tree honey and herbs, or in desserts like natural yogurts with nuts. Try it in vinaigrettes for salads with bitter ingredients like endives, or in cocktails for a unique touch. It is also ideal for sweetening herbal teas without altering their taste, offering an antioxidant boost. As it is raw, it retains its benefits; avoid heating it above 40°C to maintain the properties.

In summary, our strawberry tree honey is not just a sweetener, but a superfood with proven medicinal effects, perfect for a healthy and sustainable life.