Anzer Honey is a type of honey with limited production, botanically and chemically quite unique, produced in the Ballıköy (formerly Anzer) plateau of İkizdere district, affiliated with Rize province in the northeast of Turkey. Factors such as high altitude, the preservation of natural flora, and the continuation of traditional beekeeping methods are among the main elements that distinguish Anzer Honey from other honeys. The honey is produced only with nectar collected from the flora in this region, and production with bee colonies brought from outside is not allowed.
Anzer Honeycomb (Anadolu Agency)
Geographical Location and Plateau Ecology
Ballıköy Plateau, where Anzer Honey is produced, is a region located on the Eastern Black Sea mountain range, with altitudes varying between 2300 and 3000 meters. In this area, dominated by high mountain meadows, the humid climate and cool summer months create special conditions for both vegetation and beekeeping. These natural conditions allow endemic plant species to thrive and directly affect the content of the honey.
Floristic Characteristics and Endemism
Anzer Plateau is considered one of the richest areas of Turkey's flora. Approximately 500 different flowering plant species have been identified in botanical research conducted in the region. A significant portion of these species are endemic; meaning they naturally grow only in this geography. The nectar and pollens collected by bees from these plants give Anzer Honey a unique chemical profile.
This diversity is clearly seen in the pollen profile analyses of Anzer Honey, and it is mandatory for the honeys obtained each year to be subjected to pollen analysis by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
Production Process and Controls
The production of Anzer Honey is carried out under the leadership of the Ballıköy Agricultural Development Cooperative, established in the region. The cooperative plays a critical role in terms of transparency of production processes, combating counterfeit products, and quality control. Production is allowed only in a limited area in Ballıköy and its surroundings, and the sale of honeys produced in different regions under the name "Anzer Honey" is prohibited.
Every year at the end of summer (between late July and early September), the honeys harvested from bees are analyzed in the laboratories of Rize University or Hacettepe University. Honeys found suitable are packaged with the cooperative label and analysis number and offered to the market. This process ensures the protection of Anzer Honey from imitation.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Anzer Honey is generally light golden yellow in color and has a fluid consistency. Its aroma is floral and intense; its taste, rather than sweet, is a unique, almost sharp flavor. The honey's slow crystallization allows it to maintain its fluidity throughout its shelf life.
Anzer Honeybee Hives (Anadolu Agency)
Registration and Legal Status
Anzer Honey, in 2001, was registered as a "Geographical Indication" by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office. Thanks to this registration, the name Anzer Honey can only be used by producers who meet specific criteria. This geographically indicated product both contributes to the local economy and sets an exemplary model for the protection of regional products.
Economic and Socio-Cultural Value
Anzer Honey is among Turkey's most expensive honeys, with its kilogram price varying periodically between 2,000 TL and 4,000 TL in the market. Its economic value is high due to limited production and high demand. In addition to being an important source of income for the local people, it also contributes to Rize tourism.
Counterfeiting and Consumer Awareness
Many products sold under the name Anzer Honey can be found on the market. Therefore, consumers are advised to prefer only cooperative-approved products that include an analysis certificate. The analysis number on each jar is integrated into a system that allows the authenticity of the product to be verified.
