By Adam Abdo
Since 2015, Yemen has been in the midst of a brutal war, sparking the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. The bombing of Yemen led by Saudi Arabia and backed by strategic and military support from the US, UK and UAE. The goal is to suffocate and remove the Iranian backed Houthis in Yemen who took power via a military coup. The Saudis have deliberately targeted Yemeni infrastructure to weaken the Houthis, including bridges, factories and food sources.
The destabilisation of the country and the resulting power vacuum has allowed Al Qaeda expansion in some regions. As many as 100,000 Yemenis have perished since the start of the war and UNICEF/UN reports state that up to 80% of all inhabitants are in need of some form of humanitarian aid. The war has further devastated the economy of one of the poorest countries in the world with blockades reducing trade significantly.
Amidst the death and destruction, the indefatigable Yemenis have continued to produce and export a premium form of honey – the most expensive in the world.
The rare Sidr Tree, also known as Lote Tree, Jujube tree or Christ’s thorn is the source of this celebrated mono-floral honey – currently retailing at around £50 for 250g. The premium nature of Sidr Yemeni honey derives from both its unique procurement and sought after taste. The bees are not fed any sugar (unusual in mass honey production) and no machinery is used. It’s a process proudly carried out by Yemeni beekeepers who use smoke from dried camel skins and knives to harvest the liquid gold.
No additives, preservatives or antibiotics are incorporated, providing a raw and untainted end product. The fertile Yemeni soil sitting beneath the Sidr helps yield a thick dark rich honey which has both antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Having had the privilege of sampling Sidr on several occasions, I can attest to its delightfully robust flavour and substantial texture.
Arabs across the Middle East and particularly in the Gulf States believe Sidr to have medicinal properties, aiding with digestive issues, infection and strengthening the immune system.
The ongoing war has seen the production of Yemeni honey halve by 50% and prices have headed northwards due to the logistical and scarcity issues. There is currently no way to legally import Yemeni honey into the UK at significant scale as there is no trade agreement in place for ‘live products’. Currently, the best way to sample Sidr is to order online via the US.
Despite ongoing peace talks, the conflict in Yemen is still far from reaching a resolution. It will take generations to recover the physical and mental scars that have been inflicted on a proud and resourceful people. It’s a testament to the resolve and fortitude of the Yemeni beekeepers that despite the lack of food, the threat of bombs and drones flying overhead, and the harsh trade restrictions imposed by the Saudis, they continue to produce one of the finest food products in the world.
Best Honey in the world