It's sad that we have to question everything these days and it may surprise you to learn that honey is no exception. We are all aware that there are different qualities and subsequent prices but did you ever question if what you were actually purchasing was even honey?

Most "honey" sold in UK is simply labeled as being "A blend of EU or non-EU honeys, packed in the UK". So while you can clearly see the origin of your apples etc it is often impossible to find out where your honey is coming from. Only 14% of the honey consumed in the UK is British, most of it is imported from China and there is no current requirement to declare the countries of origin so long as there is a blend of more than one but that's not all they're hiding..

In 2023 the European Commission reported that nearly half the samples tested from 20 countries were suspected of being adulterated with sugar syrup, this included all 10 UK packed samples.

Honey from China has garnered a negative reputation for several reasons, as well as the adulteration of honey with cheap sweeteners like corn syrup, rice syrup and even sugar. The honey has also been found to contain antibiotics such as chloramphenicol and other prohibited substances. These substances are commonly used there in beekeeping practices but as these antibiotics can pose health risks to consumers they are not allowed in many countries including the EU.

So how are they getting away with this? Mislabeling and a lack of transparency regarding the origin of the honey. Some honey labeled as coming from another country may well have originated in China but was transshipped to hide its true origin. Add the convenient loophole of not having to state the origin of honey if there is any blend and we have rubbish masked as honey in our high streets with the consumer none the wiser. This is not to say that there are no genuine producers in China of course but they are not in the imported blends addressed in this article.

The influx of cheap, often adulterated honey also has economic repercussions for beekeepers in other countries who produce, high quality, pure honey. The price competition hurts local beekeepers and reduces the incentive to maintain high-quality production standards. This in turn further jeopardises the much needed support of the bees.

So check the label on your honey and think twice about where you want to put your money next time you go shopping! Real honey is undoubtedly one of the most wonderful gifts from nature and the difference in taste and health benefits is huge. Some of us were lucky enough to sample the treats that Mark, aka, "the bee man" kindly brought to last years BBQ with his "toffee honey" still talked about and it's exciting to think about the future honey their bees will create at Little Fields. Support local, support nature and enjoy the liquid gold that is pure British honey!