The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory clarifying the classification of honey samples that exceed the permissible limit for Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). This clarification addresses inconsistencies among analysts who were previously labeling such samples as either ‘Substandard’ or ‘Unsafe’.
The relevant Scientific Panel of the FSSAI, following its 29th meeting on December 18, 2024, examined the issue. The panel concluded that there is insufficient research or literature available to definitively establish the safety implications of consuming honey with HMF levels higher than the specified maximum of $80$ mg/kg (as per Clause 2.8.3(1) of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011).
In light of this expert opinion, the FSSAI has issued a clear directive: HMF shall be treated as a quality parameter rather than a safety parameter until further data is available. Accordingly, any honey sample found to be non-compliant with the prescribed limit for HMF shall henceforth be categorized as “Substandard.” The Scientific Panel may deliberate the issue again once more conclusive safety data is available.