Following the honey adulteration controversy, demand is high for exclusive, unpasteurised honey varieties sourced from forests across the country
In January, the lower slopes of hill ranges and farmlands in Erode and surrounding areas stretching up to Kodaikanal are awash with the white blossoms of the mudakathan. The medicinal creeper, known as the balloon vine, is popularly used to treat joint pains. The sweet smelling flowers are also an excellent source of honey. P Stephen, the co-founder of Ghats Honey, an Erode-based brand that sells wild, unpasteurised honey, says their mudakkathan honey is much sought-after.
Ever since the pandemic, honey has been flying off the shelves, thanks to its much-touted, immunity boosting properties. However, with a recent controversy surrounding its adulteration, honey users have begun to swap commercially available honey for niche varieties, sourced from traditional honey collectors.
Demand is on the rise for raw, unpasteurised and…