The Honey Standard
Governance & impartiality
Trust depends on how a standard is developed and how decisions are made. The Honey Standard is developing its governance and assurance arrangements alongside the technical requirements.
Where we are now
The standard and its supporting processes are being developed. We are seeking input from people with practical, scientific and assurance expertise before finalising the requirements.
This page explains the principles guiding that work. It does not announce an appointed independent board, accreditation or approval by a public body.
A range of informed perspectives
The requirements should reflect beekeeping practice, extraction and packing operations, bee health, authenticity and the needs of people buying honey.
We aim to use technical evidence and consultation to test requirements, explain their purpose and avoid unnecessary administration. Important changes should be documented and communicated clearly.
Managing conflicts of interest
Commercial, personal and professional interests can affect both the development of requirements and assurance decisions. Relevant interests need to be declared and considered.
The intended arrangements include recording conflicts and excluding people from decisions where their interests could compromise impartiality. Technical contribution, payment or membership should not secure a favourable certification outcome.
The relationship with The Honey Collective
The Honey Standard and The Honey Collective are separate companies founded by Robert Honey. The Honey Collective is a honey retail business; that shared relationship is relevant to how THS manages impartiality.
The governance arrangements being developed must keep commercial interests separate from assessment and certification decisions, with conflicts managed and decisions supported by evidence.
Accountability and review
Applicants and the public need a clear way to raise concerns. Our Complaints & Appeals page explains how to contact us during development.
Information about the adopted governance arrangements, appointed roles and final scheme rules will be made available as these are confirmed. If you have relevant expertise or questions about impartiality, we would welcome hearing from you.