What is the term for the bees' process of converting nectar into honey?

The process by which bees convert nectar into honey is referred to as ripening or curing. This process occurs after bees collect nectar from flowers and bring it back to the hive. Once inside, they deposit the nectar into the honeycomb, where it undergoes a transformation. The bees will fan their wings to evaporate water from the nectar, thickening it and increasing its sugar concentration. This not only preserves the honey but also enhances its flavor. The term "ripening" specifically encompasses the final stages of this change, where the nectar is transformed into honey that has the correct consistency and stability for storage.

This process is distinct from other terms that might involve different biological functions or actions. For instance, fermenting typically refers to a chemical breakdown by microorganisms, which does not describe the bees’ method of producing honey from nectar. Collecting or storing relates to the initial actions of bees gathering nectar and pollen, rather than the conversion process itself. Similarly, seasoning or processing implies adding flavors or modifying substances for uses other than simply creating a storage product, setting these terms apart from the specific actions involved in ripening nectar into honey.