THS KNOWLEDGE CENTRE
Honey testing: what can it establish?
Honey testing can provide evidence about a sample. Its value depends on the question asked, the method used, the sample and how the findings are interpreted.
There is no universal authenticity test
An FSA-funded research report published in 2025 explains that existing methods do not detect every type of sugar syrup adulteration. It supports interpreting honey analysis through a weight-of-evidence approach.
A result should therefore be considered within its stated purpose and limitations. The absence of a finding in one test is not a universal guarantee about every possible adulteration or origin claim.
Ask a clear question first
Are you investigating a compositional parameter, a particular adulteration concern or an origin claim? These are different questions and may need different methods and supporting information.
Discuss the question with a suitably competent laboratory. Ask what the method detects, what it does not address and how the result can be used.
Connect the result to the sample
Keep the sample reference connected to the batch, the sampling date and the circumstances of collection. Preserve the original laboratory report and any explanatory information.
A report about one sample should not be presented as covering unrelated batches. If sampling or identification is unclear, establish the connection before drawing conclusions.
Read the report in context
Consider the stated method, reporting limits, interpretation and any qualifications. Review the production and supply-chain records alongside the result, and investigate inconsistencies.
Where findings are disputed or uncertain, further information or suitable additional testing may be needed. THS’s proposed approach combines assessment and records with testing where appropriate; it does not rely on a single test as a blanket assurance.
What this means for THS
The final technical requirements, testing triggers and evidence rules are still being developed. This page does not prescribe a universal testing frequency or identify a laboratory as an approved THS partner.
Laboratory and authenticity specialists are invited to contribute to the design of proportionate, evidence-based requirements.
Sources and further reading
FSA Research and Evidence: Developing a new testing methodology for honey authentication (2025)
External sources inform this introduction; their authors have not endorsed THS. Published research should be read in its original context.
Explore further
Have a question or correction? Contact The Honey Standard.