Lucerne honey, a honey from the lowlands

3Bee is the Nature Tech company that develops technologies for the protection of biodiversity. 3Bee Hive-Tech is 3Bee's first system for analysing the health and 'starvation' status of honeybees, environmental pests par excellence. Over time, we have developed other technologies to study and monitor all the pollinating insects and created more than 200 Oases of Biodiversity with thousands of nectariferous plants to provide them with nourishment. Thus, we want to create a virtuous circle: our beekeepers are transformed by necessity into Oasis growers and promoters of environmental biodiversity. We do not encourage massive production and intensive breeding, which have a negative impact on biodiversity and pollinators. We do, however, recognise the value of honey as a valuable symbol of the biodiversity of an environment and a tool for disseminating the commitment and protection of an area, to be consumed sparingly and with respect for the life cycle of these insects.

Alfalfa is a plant found all over the peninsula, but only in a warm and humid climate does it guarantee sufficient nectar production for monofloral production. The production of this honey is mainly concentrated in Lombardy, Veneto and Emilia - Romagna. A plant that flowers between May and September is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family.

Lucerne honey is amber-coloured, only after the crystallisation, which is very rapid, tending to beige-hazelnut. Smell and aroma are medium intense and persistent. The vegetal odour is slightly pungent and reminiscent of melted beeswax and wet grass. While on the palate, it often recalls the taste of cooked milk or grape must. Among its therapeutic properties are anti-spasmodic, diuretic and energetic. It is highly recommended for sportsmen and women, immediately after training.

Now that you know what alfalfa honey looks like and what characteristics it has, you just have to taste it. On the Adopt a Beehive platform you can find all 3Bee beekeepers, the modern 4.0 hero of bees. Among our beekeepers are Apicoltura Costenaro with its precious Herbal Medicine Honey. Through technology, they protect these fundamental pollinators, constantly monitoring their health and intervening promptly in case of emergencies or problems. What matters in a beekeeper's heart are bees and their well-being. Protect them too and choose a beehive!

Alfalfa honey crystallises quite early on, and can be recognised by its light beige to hazelnut colour. On the palate, alfalfa honey is normally sweet, with a lingering note of acidity and astringency. It has a moderately persistent aroma with a strong vegetable note. Lastly, one can recognise alfalfa honey by its odour, which can vary from medium to intense. It has a vegetal odour with a vague hint of hay and milk enzymes. Now all you have to do is taste it to savour all the biodiversity it holds.

The information contained in this blog concerns the importance of honey as the fruit of the tireless work of bees that transforms the collected nectar (including extra-floral nectar and honeydew) into a precious food product that encompasses the biodiversity with all the countless facets present in the hive's surroundings. On an environmental level, honey is the symbol of the pollination activity of the bee, which flies from flower to flower to collect the nectar and, in so doing, transports the pollen, becoming the vector for the pollination and reproduction of tens of thousands of plant species. Honey is still a little-known product, often devalued in its quality or sold as a panacea for all ills. Like all foods, however, it must be consumed with moderation and care as it contains a high content of simple sugars. But it is not in its basic values that its most important quality lies.

The aim of this blog is to promote and disseminate a deeper understanding of the crucial role of bees for the preservation of our ecosystem and for the continuation of scientific research directed towards the identification of more sustainable agricultural practices aiming at the regeneration of entire areas. The choice of honey goes far beyond what is written on the label. The true value of honey is linked to its method of production, whether it is respectful of bees and the ecosystems they inhabit. Favouring non-intensive beekeeping practices and promoting the best actions to support the health of the hive are the cornerstones of our activity. The beekeeper for us is not a breeder, but a true 'Grower': he cultivates, cares for and nurtures true oases of biodiversity, paying attention not only to bees, but also to ecosystems and their balance.