OLDEST SWEETENER IN the world, honey is part of the human diet since prehistoric times. A natural sugar substitute, it goes well with fruits, milk, yogurt, crackers, cereals, juices and coffee. It can be used in quick breads and, when added to cake batters, the final product is moister. In confectionery, however, replacing sugar with honey is not that simple. Viscous and with flavor profiles varying from floral to herbaceous (depending on the flowers available in the region it was harvested), it may interfere with the flavor, cooking temperature and texture of preparations. In savory dishes, honey is an ingredient in salad dressings and condiments, and its sweetness is a pleasant contrast to cheeses. Rio Grande do Sul, Paraná and Santa Catarina are the top producers in Brazil.