Turkey targets global luxury market with high-value honey production

Turkey, the world's second-largest honey producer after China, is gaining international attention for producing some of the most expensive and unique honey varieties globally. Much of this high-value production is centered in the Artvin region, where high-altitude valleys and rich biodiversity support specialized beekeeping.

Notable products include Centauri honey, which was recorded by Guinness World Records in 2021 after being sold for 10,000 euros per kilogram, and Elvish honey, which has been sold at Harrods in the UK. The region is also known for 'deli bal' (mad honey), produced from rhododendron nectar, which has historical accounts of causing hallucinogenic effects dating back to Ancient Greece.

To capitalize on this potential, the 'Profunda' project aims to market Artvin's honey as a high-value alternative to New Zealand's Manuka honey. Laboratory tests suggest that the antioxidant levels in Artvin honey are comparable to Manuka. The initiative seeks to certify the biochemical properties of the honey to create economic opportunities and employment for youth in rural areas.