Founder’s Thoughts: We’ve Started Production… But the Real Work Begins Now

This week marks a huge milestone: after five long years of patenting, testing, refining, and reimagining what honey can really be, we’ve officially begun production of our first real jars.

I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t emotional. I’ve spent years perfecting not only the formulation—but also the vision behind what I believe the honey industry desperately needs: honesty, sustainability, and the guts to disrupt.

But even as I celebrate, I’m still left wondering: why does this industry have its head so deeply buried in the sand?

In the last week alone, I’ve spoken to several industry professionals who privately applauded my work—but were afraid to speak publicly. One, someone I deeply respect inside a large Manuka honey brand, told me that sustainable packaging doesn’t matter to consumers right now. And yet, this same company markets bee wellness, nature, and certification programs like gospel.

That contradiction is maddening.

Let’s talk about the facts:

• A 2024 global packaging review found that over 82% of honey sold in major retailers is still bottled in plastic, despite growing consumer concern. It takes over 400 years for these jars to break down—if they ever do.
• A March 2024 report from the Environmental Claims Authority uncovered widespread greenwashing in wellness product packaging, including in food and honey brands—where phrases like “eco,” “natural,” or “bee-safe” were used without any evidence to support those claims.

It’s not just misleading—it’s damaging. Plastic-packed “wellness” products are flooding the market under the guise of environmentalism, while brands delete comments that challenge their practices. (Yes, I’ve had my questions removed too.)

Meanwhile, I’m hand-producing, hand-pouring, and doing a 30-day reel challenge on Instagram solo. It’s not perfect—what I see in my head doesn’t always make it to screen—but I’m showing up. I’m making, I’m building, and I’m learning, because that’s what it takes to do something different.

My website, BEEd, is going live this week in sell mode—for conscious food producers big and small who are ready to break up with plastic. It’s a big leap, and it’s happening.

I’ve also started having investment conversations again. And while I’m open to growth, I’m cautious. I won’t repeat the mistakes of the past: I won’t let money crush creativity. I won’t compromise for performance if it means losing purpose. What I’m building isn’t just a product—it’s a stand.

Reducing plastic shouldn’t be radical. But if it is, then I’ll gladly be radical.

To every consumer, brand, beekeeper, and rebel watching this space: I hear you. I see you. And I’m inviting you to build this future with me.

Repeat after me - I Am Hot Honey!

With love, jars, and sting—

Lisa