The moderate climate, the long periods of sunshine and the great variety of nectar and pollen plants in Messinia constitute an ideal environment for the production of excellent honey products with a rich aroma and a distinctive taste. The honey from Taygetos, in particular, is floral honey, that is, honey produced by the nectar of flowers (thyme, flowers, arbutus, heather, sage) and honeydew (fir and pine). Honey is a 100% natural product and the only sweetener, which can be stored and used exactly as it was produced by nature. Its attributes and properties do not deteriorate with time. Honey can be used as a sweetener in many recipes for desserts and sweets, such as the traditional pasteli. It can also replace sugar in many beverages.
Honey mainly consists of carbohydrates. In smaller proportions, there are also proteins, potassium, sodium, phosphorus and calcium. The main sugars are fructose and glucose. Honey is easily absorbed by the body and has antibacterial properties. Its antioxidant properties are of great interest: honey contains phenols and flavonoids, such as quercetin, luteolin, apigenin, chrysin, kaempferol, and galanin. These substances disrupt the oxidation reactions in food and the human body. Several studies have shown that honey has anti-inflammatory, anticancer and anti properties. It can reduce skin inflammation and contribute to the healing of wounds activating at the same time tissue rejuvenation. There are indications that honey can reduce the spread of metastatic cancers. Within the context of a balanced diet, honey can constitute an important energy source for athletes and children.