Honey bees convert nectar into honey by a process of regurgitation and evaporation
It has attractive chemical properties for baking and a distinctive flavor that leads some people to prefer it to sugar and other sweeteners. However, honey sometimes contains dormant endospores of the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which can be dangerous to babies, as it may result in botulism.
People who have a weakened immune system should not eat honey because of the risk of bacterial or fungal infection. There is some evidence that honey may be effective in treating diseases and other medical conditions such as wounds and burns. Honey is generally safe but there are various, potential adverse-effects it may have in combination with excessive consumption, existing disease conditions, or drugs.
Honey use and production has a long and varied history. Honey collection is an ancient activity. Humans apparently began foraging for honey at least 8,000 years ago, as evidenced by a cave painting in Valencia, Spain.