New Honey Labelling Rules: What Beekeepers Need to Know

Why Have New Rules Been Introduced?

Honey is one of the most valued food products by consumers, but it is also one of the products most frequently associated with questions regarding origin and authenticity. To increase consumer confidence and improve the information available in the marketplace, the European Union has introduced changes to honey labelling requirements.

These measures are intended to improve transparency regarding product origin and make it easier to identify the countries where the honey was actually produced.

What Is Changing in Honey Labelling?

One of the most significant changes concerns the declaration of honey origin.

Until now, it was common to find generic statements on labels such as:

• Blend of EU honeys.
• Blend of non-EU honeys.
• Blend of EU and non-EU honeys.

Under the new rules, this information will no longer be sufficient in many cases. Countries of origin will need to be identified more clearly, allowing consumers to understand more precisely where the honey they purchase comes from.

Greater Transparency for Consumers

Providing detailed information about countries of origin contributes to a more transparent marketplace and helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions.

At the same time, these measures support producers who invest in quality, traceability, and product authenticity.

For beekeepers and honey producers, this presents an opportunity to highlight the local origin of their honey and strengthen customer trust.

Combating Food Fraud

The legislative changes have also been introduced as part of wider efforts to combat food fraud and honey adulteration.

Product traceability is an important tool for regulatory authorities and plays a key role in protecting consumers.

More comprehensive labelling helps promote a fairer market and protects producers who operate responsibly and transparently.

How Should Producers Prepare?

This is a good opportunity to review all processes related to honey production and marketing:

• Review current product labels.
• Verify country-of-origin information.
• Strengthen traceability procedures.
• Update production records and documentation.
• Ensure packaging complies with applicable requirements.

Maintaining organised records and ensuring all information provided to consumers is accurate is becoming increasingly important.

The Importance of Suitable Honey Jars and Packaging

Beyond labelling, product presentation continues to play a key role in adding value to honey.

Glass honey jars help preserve the natural characteristics of honey, inspire consumer confidence, and contribute to a professional brand image.

At Abadia Rural, you will find a wide range of solutions for beekeepers and honey producers:

• Glass jars for honey.
• Lids suitable for food packaging.
• Beekeeping equipment and supplies.
• Honey extraction and processing equipment.
• Packaging and presentation accessories.

Whether you are a small-scale artisan producer or a larger beekeeping operation, using high-quality materials is essential for enhancing your final product and meeting market expectations.

Where Can You Learn More?

The new requirements may raise questions regarding their practical application.

For a detailed explanation of the legislation and honey labelling requirements, we recommend reading the following articles:

• English: New Honey Labelling Rules
• Portuguese: Novas Regras de Rotulagem do Mel

The new honey labelling rules represent an important step towards greater transparency, improved consumer information, and stronger recognition for producers who operate with quality and integrity.

By reviewing their processes, updating labels, and using suitable packaging, producers can ensure they are well prepared to meet current market requirements.

At Abadia Rural, you will find everything needed for your beekeeping activities, from beekeeping supplies to glass honey jars and accessories for presenting your honey professionally.