Hydroxymethylfurfural as a Quality Parameter in Honey

File No.:QA-11023/57/2024-QA-FSSAI-Part(1) QA-
भारतीय खाद्य सुरक्षा और मानक प्राधिकरण
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
(खाद्य सुरक्षा एवं मानक अधिनियम, 2006 के तहत स्थापित एक वैधानिक प्राधिकरण)
(A Statutory Authority established under the Food Safety & Standards Act, 2006)
(गुणवत्ता आश्वासन प्रभाग)
(Quality Assurance Division)
एफडीए भवन, कोटला रोड, नई दिल्ली -110002
FDA Bhawan, Kotla Road, New Delhi – 110002

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Dated, 07 November, 2025

Advisory

Subject: Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to be considered as a quality parameter in Honey

As per Clause 2.8.3(1) of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, the standards for honey specify a maximum permissible limit of 80 mg/kg for Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). It has been noted that there are inconsistencies in the classification of honey samples that exceed this limit, with some analysts reporting them as 'Substandard' and others as 'Unsafe'.

The relevant Scientific Panel of the FSSAI in its 29th meeting held on 18.12.2024 has examined this issue and has concluded that enough research/literature is not available to establish the safety implications of consumption of honey higher than the prescribed level of HMF. The Scientific Panel may deliberate it again as and when more data are available and till that time HMF to be treated as a quality parameter.

In light of the opinion of the Scientific Panel, it is hereby clarified that any honey sample found to be non-compliant with the prescribed limit for HMF shall be categorised as "Substandard".

This is issued with the approval of competent authority.

Digitally signed by Srinivasan G. V
Date: 07-11-2025 16:03:55
(Dr. Srinivasan G V)
Joint Director (Quality Assurance)

To

1. All FSSAI Notified Laboratories

Copy to:

1. PS to Chairperson, FSSAI-for information
2. PS to CEO, FSSAI-for information
3. CITO FSSAI, New Delhi-for upload on the FSSAI website