A New Year's resolution to improve well-being... with Mead.

A new year always feels like a new beginning and it's a great time to make resolutions that will hopefully make this new year even better than the last. Many of these resolutions we make during this time of year focus on wellness. And these days, it's not just the well-being of 'me', but the well-being of 'we'. In that sense, we thought that this would be a good time to remind you why mead is a product that contributes to well-being:

1. Mead helps bees. Bees are essential for the maintenance of our ecosystem, since they pollinate a third of the world's crops. By using honey to make mead, you contribute to sustaining the bee population. In addition, the honey used in the mead is usually obtained from local beekeepers, which benefits small businesses and/or families that promote sustainable practices.

Michael holding a frame covered in bees at Ark Herb Farm.

2. Mead does not require intensive cultivation. Many alcoholic beverages, such as wine, beer, and whiskey, are made from crops (for example, grapes and cereals) that consume large amounts of water, fertilizers, and pesticides in their production. Mead, on the other hand, is made from honey, which only requires small apiaries that can be located in woodlands surrounded by wildflowers to produce.

Alejandra inspecting a hive in a small apiary located in Heredia

3. The mead uses local ingredients. By using honey and other ingredients that are produced locally, the carbon footprint generated by transportation is reduced and the consumption of fresh and seasonal foods is promoted. Furthermore, this also benefits local economies.

Alejandra harvesting Jabuticaba in San Isidro de El General. Michael harvesting Rose of Jamaica at the back of the Costa Rica Meadery facility.

4. The mead is gluten-free. For those with a gluten intolerance, finding an alcoholic beverage that suits their needs can be difficult. Mead is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for these people.

Alejandra in front of a tray of pujagua corn. Costa Rica Meadery brews malt from native corn and uses the malt to ferment gluten-free mead.

In short, mead is a wellness product that helps bees, does not require intensive cultivation, uses local ingredients and is gluten-free.

If you want to make a decision to improve your well-being, and that of those around you, consider mead when drinking!