Godrej’s Food and Microbiology lab drives consumer-centric innovation
A report by the CSE found that 77% of samples of Indian honey brands were adulterated
A report by the CSE found that 77% of samples of Indian honey brands were adulterated. India’s Centre for Science and Environment, based in Delhi, has uncovered a case of food fraud in India. Indian companies in the business of making honey are importing synthetic sugar syrup from China for adulteration of the honey.
Testing samples were sent to the CALF (Centre for Analysis & Learning in Livestock & Food), a multidisciplinary analytical lab at NDDB (National Dairy Development Board). Six samples and a control raw honey sample were sent for testing of C4C3 sugars and foreign oligosaccharides. The investigation used syrup sent by syrup manufacturers in China with claims of passing tests for these sugars.
C4 sugars are those that are derived from the C4 plants such as corn and sugarcane. Meanwhile, C3 sugars are those derived from C3 plants such as rice and wheat. And foreign oligosaccharides are starch-based sugars such as those from rice and corn.
A total of 13 Indian honey brands were tested and 8 of these are top brands selling processed honey. 5 are niche brands and 4 out of these 5, sell raw honey. CSE purchased samples from retail stores in Delhi and major online platforms. The samples were then tested on parameters set by the FSSAI, operationalized in 2020. 17 out of the 22 samples (77%) were found to be adulterated.
Furthermore, major honey brands denied these allegations, pointing out that they comply with the regulations laid out by the FSSAI. Dabur Honey released a statement claiming these reports were “aimed at maligning our brand”.
Acharya Balkrishna, managing director of Patanjali Ayurved Ltd., responded to the allegations saying, “It seems to be a plot to defame the Indian natural honey industry and manufacturers in a bid to promote processed honey. It further seems to be an international marketing design to promote German technology and machines which cost crores of rupees.”
Meanwhile, Emami, which produces Zandu Pure Honey, too defended its product. In a statement, the company said, “Emami, as a responsible organization, ensures that its Zandu Pure Honey conforms and adheres to all the protocols and quality norms/standards laid down by the Government of India and its authorised entities such as FSSAI.”
Ashwin Bhadri, CEO of Equinox Labs has his say on the matter that, “We see Honey as a healthy, natural, and beneficial sweetener which has immense utility in food and medicinal purposes. This revelation about honey adulteration is quite surprising.However, we must not take a hasty approach. We believe that FSSAI and other concerning authorities will come up with the right regulations pertaining to this matter.”
The thought that the honey that is reaching our table is neither healthy nor natural is quite concerning.