On July 31, 2025, a significant food safety incident was reported involving the detection of high levels of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) in honey and honey products. The issue originated from France and was classified under the control category. HMF is a compound that can form in honey during storage and processing and is often used as an indicator of quality and freshness.
The information was disseminated through the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed portal (RASFF), which serves as a critical communication channel for food safety alerts across Europe. The presence of elevated HMF levels in honey can raise concerns regarding the quality and integrity of the product.
As a result of this detection, relevant authorities and stakeholders are expected to undertake necessary measures to address the issue. The incident underscores the importance of monitoring food products to ensure they meet safety standards and regulatory requirements. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food safety alerts and to verify the quality of honey and honey products they may purchase.