It is important to test your honey for moisture and grade it for color when selling at a large volume.

A refractometer measures the percentage of moisture in your honey. This level varies from batch to batch but is typically 17 percent or less. Color grading is important, too—especially if selling to someone (a baker or mead maker) who wants a particular color (and thus flavor) of honey.

Typically, the darker the honey, the more robust the flavor.

Here are three ways to ensure your honey is “ripe” (at the right moisture content):

• Extract a majority of honey frames that have been capped.
• Once extracted, don't leave your honey exposed: Put a lid on it!
• Test your honey's moisture content with a refractometer.