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CAFIA inspected pure honey sold currently by local and foreign producers in the marketplace. CAFIA inspection staff sampled honey produced both domestically and internationally. Honey samples were tested in laboratories on both quality standards and possible presence of antibiotics residues. Since honey adulteration is an emerging global fraud, additional tests for determining the level of sugar added were conducted. Honey adulterated with different levels of saccharose, starch or corn syrup or cane sugar is usually recorded.

Test uncovered adulteration in 11 out of 23 delivered honey samples, i.e. in 48%.  Five samples contained prohibited antibiotics residues, notably tetracycline, chloramphenicol or streptomycin. One sample was contaminated with sulfonamide residues. CAFIA determined that the consumption of contaminated honey may pose health risks to consumers and banned the circulation.

Other honey samples did not meet various quality criteria given by respective regulations, namely increased levels of hydroxymethylfurfuraldehyde (HMF). HMF is used as an indicator of freshness and excessive heat treatment during extraction process. Fresh natural honey has zero HMF level, however during storage at elevated temperatures HMF level increases. If a limit of 40 mg/kg is exceeded, the quality is deemed to be unsuitable.

Four samples bore incorrect labeling of blends. Blossom honey was indicated on a label as mixed or forest honey. No other mislabeling was discovered.

In the light of this situation, CAFIA has implemented corrective measures or imposed product circulation bans. The findings from recent investigations were passed on to the State Veterinary Administration, which is competent to directly inspect honey importers and manufacturers.

Due to the significant nature of the findings, CAFIA will intensify inspection activities on honey in the future.

Inspection  findings are available to public at www.szpi.gov.cz (only in czech version)