The Malaysian Ministry of Health (MOH) has responded to concerns raised regarding the proliferation of fake honey in the market, as highlighted in an article titled “Surge in 90% Fake Honey in the Market: How to Differentiate Authentic Ones,” published by Berita Harian on February 13, 2024. The article also shed light on kelulut honey.
According to a statement by MOH, in Malaysia, honey is classified based on the species of bees that produce it, namely “madu” from the Apis dorsata honeybee or “kelulut honey” from stingless bees. Under Regulation 130 of the Food Regulations 1985, honey products must adhere to established standards, including a minimum of 60% reducing sugars, a sucrose content of no more than 10%, and an absence of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) exceeding 80 mg/kg.
MOH, through its Food Safety and Quality Program (PKKM), continuously monitors honey products in the market. A total of 769 honey product samples from various brands have been collected from 2016 to date. Monitoring results revealed that 45 samples (5.85%) did not meet the standards set under the Food Regulations 1985, leading to enforcement actions against the involved companies and products.
Section 13(2)(e) stipulates penalties for individuals found to be in violation of food standards or specifications, including fines not exceeding RM20,000 or imprisonment for up to 5 years, or both.
In response to these challenges, MOH offers the Authentic Food Certification Scheme aimed at recognising authentic/genuine food products that meet the criteria set forth in the scheme. This includes honey products, meat, coffee, and swiftlet bird nests. To date, seven (7) companies have obtained Authentic Certification for honey products from MOH.
MOH is currently collaborating with the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and the Department of Agriculture to determine honey authenticity using state-of-the-art isotope techniques recommended by international food standards from Codex.
MOH remains vigilant and committed to safeguarding consumer health. Consumers are advised to choose food products bearing the Food Safety Assurance Program (PJKM) logos such as Authentic, MeSTI, GMP, and HACCP from MOH.
