Honey guide

Recognising honey authenticity and quality

Good honey is recognised above all by clear labelling: country of origin, variety, the name of the beekeeper or bottler, and a traceable batch number. Home remedy tests, on the other hand, tell you very little.

Reading the label

The label reveals the most. Look out for these details:

• Country of origin: This must be stated. For blends, it will say something like "blend of honeys from EU countries". A single country means the honey comes from that country.
• Variety: Variety names such as rapeseed, linden or forest indicate which floral source the honey predominantly comes from.
• Beekeeper or bottler: The name and address must be clearly stated.
• Batch and shelf life: The batch number and best-before date make it possible to trace a honey back to its source.

Traceability and region

The more precisely the origin is stated, the easier it is to trace. With SUMMSTOFF, you'll find not just the variety but also the region on the jar, for example Heide, Schwarzwald or Münsterland. If you'd like to know who's behind the honey, you'll find Buy honey straight from the beekeeper background on the cooperative. More on the origin labelling can be found at Honey from Germany.

Price as an indicator

Producing, bottling and delivering honey costs money. A very low price is therefore reason enough to take a closer look at origin and labelling. On its own, however, it says nothing about quality — and neither does a high price. What matters is how transparently the supplier informs you.

Crystallisation is not a sign of adulteration

A common myth: "firm honey has been adulterated" or "liquid honey has been heated". Neither is true. Whether honey stays liquid or turns firm depends on the variety and how it's stored. Rapeseed honey sets quickly, whereas acacia stays liquid for a long time. More on this here: Honey Crystallises.

Home remedy tests

Tests involving water, thumbs, bread or fire circulate online. They're not reliable, as consistency and behaviour depend heavily on the variety and water content. Reliable information on variety and composition comes from laboratory analysis, such as pollen analysis. In everyday life, clear labelling and a supplier you can ask questions of are what really help.

Questions you can ask the supplier

• Which country and region does the honey come from?
• Who harvested and bottled the honey?
• Which variety is it, and where does this information come from?
• Can I find a batch number or a best-before date?

Reputable suppliers are happy to answer such questions. At SUMMSTOFF, you can always ask us via our contact page .

What honey must be, by law

In Germany, honey is regulated by the Honey Regulation (Honigverordnung). Nothing may be added to honey, and nothing may be removed from it. The regulation also sets out which details must appear on the label. If you're interested in the precise legal position, you'll find the Honey Regulation online in its current version.

Honest information instead of promises

A good honey only states what can be proven. A supplier who clearly names the origin, variety and the person responsible makes it easy for you to compare honeys. This applies to any honey, whether from a beekeeper, a farm shop or a supermarket.

Getting to know the varieties

If you know the varieties and their typical flavour, it's easier to recognise what a honey should be. The variety guide and the variety comparison can help with this.

Frequently asked questions