Introduction
On 7 November 2025, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India issued an advisory stating that Hydroxymethylfurfural, or HMF, will now be treated as a quality parameter in honey. The clarification comes under Clause 2.8.3(1) of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, which allows a maximum of 80 mg/kg of HMF in honey. The decision follows a review by FSSAI’s Scientific Panel during its 29th meeting held on 18 December 2024.
Background
HMF forms in honey when it is heated or stored for long periods. It acts as an indicator of freshness and processing quality. FSSAI regulations limit HMF to 80 mg/kg. However, laboratories have been inconsistent in classifying honey samples that exceed this limit. Some labelled them substandard, while others marked them unsafe.
The Scientific Panel reviewed this issue and found that current research does not clearly show any safety risk from honey containing higher HMF levels. Until more data is available, FSSAI has decided to treat HMF as a quality factor rather than a safety concern.
Key Clarification
FSSAI has clarified that honey samples with HMF levels above 80 mg/kg will now be categorised as substandard, not unsafe. This step ensures uniform reporting by all notified laboratories. It also gives producers and regulators a clear guideline to follow while maintaining consistency in compliance.
By classifying HMF as a quality parameter, FSSAI has streamlined the testing process and prevented misinterpretation of results. The decision will remain effective until more scientific evidence supports a change in classification.
Implications for the Honey Industry
This advisory has practical implications for both honey producers and laboratories.
- Honey exceeding 80 mg/kg of HMF will be recorded as substandard.
- Laboratories must revise their reporting format to reflect this classification.
- Producers should monitor heating and storage practices to keep HMF within limits.
- FSSAI may revisit the parameter when new research provides additional insights.
The clarification supports standardization, improves regulatory enforcement, and strengthens quality assurance practices across India’s honey sector.
The advisory issued by FSSAI on 7 November 2025 confirms that Hydroxymethylfurfural will be considered only as a quality parameter in honey. This decision removes ambiguity, ensures consistent classification, and reinforces the Authority’s science-based approach to food regulation. It also highlights FSSAI’s continued efforts to build a transparent and reliable quality framework for the Indian honey industry.