Italian honey producers and networks celebrate industry milestones

The Cooperativa Apicoltori Gubbio-Gualdo Tadino has received three awards at the 46th edition of the ‘Tre Gocce d’Oro’ competition in Castel San Pietro Terme. Two honeys received ‘Two Gold Drops’ and one received ‘One Gold Drop’ in the Millefiori category. These honors come despite a challenging season marked by extreme heat and drought during the summer months, which limited apiary production.

Separately, the ‘Le Città del Miele’ network is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Originally founded in 2001 by the mayors of Lazise and Montalcino, the network has grown to include 52 territories across 18 Italian regions. The association promotes honey through festivals and fairs, contributing to the rise of ‘apiturismo’ (beekeeping tourism). Since the network's inception, per capita honey consumption in Italy has increased from 200 to 600 grams, with national production reaching approximately 22,000 tons annually.