honey

Plant glands (nectaries) secrete a sugary liquid to attract pollinators.
Extrafloral nectaries attract mutualists to defend against herbivores.
Honeydew secreted by some insects (aphids) that feed on plant sap.

Nectar drips from the reflexed sepals of Tulip Poplar flowers, a major nectar source.

A honey bee collects water

Water is essential for life, but is also used by honey bees in times of heat stress for evaporative cooling. Water is deposited within the hive and, by fanning their wings, air is circulated to provide humidity control and a stable temperature for developing brood.

A frame of capped honey, ready to be extracted.

Honey is created by the collection, reduction (evaporation), and processing (enzymatic action) of nectar.

Stored at ~18% water content. Reduced risk of spoilage by yeast which promotes long term storage.

Sealed beneath a wax capping when finished processing.