Israel Prepares for Rosh Hashanah with Honey Harvest

As Rosh Hashanah approaches, Israeli beekeepers are busy harvesting honey from their hives. The process, often referred to as 'rodding the honey,' is a crucial part of preparing for the Jewish New Year, a holiday traditionally marked by eating symbolic foods, including honey, to wish for a sweet year.

Beekeepers employ various methods to extract the honey, ensuring the combs are handled carefully to maintain the health of the bee colonies. This annual harvest is not only vital for the beekeeping industry but also for consumers who look forward to fresh, local honey for their holiday tables.

The timing of the harvest is critical, coinciding with the end of the summer season when bees have collected nectar from a variety of flowers. The collected honey is then processed, filtered, and packaged for sale, with many anticipating its presence on the Rosh Hashanah Seder plate.