I encourage everyone to try topbar hives and raise their own bees and honey. It's so easy and enjoyable. It's funny that even the local bee clubs are part of the problem. When I first started I was shunned somewhat for using topbar hives. I didn't care because I could make my own hives for practically free with much less maintenance.
Then I kept hearing how most lost a majority of their hives over winter. I have only lost one hive in 3-4 years. Well....come to find out they are bringing the bees up from southern states to get an early jump. Those bees can't take out winters I guess. Then they rob all the honey from the hive to sell and supplement them with sugar water and other supplements. It was all about making money to them. They still make money even with the losses.
I started with one package (3lbs) and have never treated them. I think they crossbred with the native bees and are naturally cleaning themselves of mites. I gave away a swarm to a lady and she said, "those are huge, I don't know if they will fit in the cells". The standard hives have much smaller cells to maximize production.
You can't trust any honey sold in the stores..they are all cut with sugar. You can buy from a local farmers market. Chances are they have a $75 pair of gloves, $250 suit and many other fancy gadgets/equipment. Most I met are portraying they are helping the environment but are in it for the money like a politician. Not all...but many.
Just rambling with my opinions...grow your own.