Any product sold in the European Union as honey must be free of additives by law, including antibiotics used to treat bees for disease. [1] X Research source Any honey with defects seriously affecting the taste must be sold as “baker’s honey” intended for use in processed foods. [2] X Research source The United States government does not test for honey purity, and allows trace amounts of antibiotics. A USDA logo does not mean the honey is pure. [3] X Research source Florida is the only U. S. state that requires honey to display all additives as long as it is both manufactured and sold within Florida. [4] X Research source Beware substances sold under a different name, such as “honey blends” or “honey products,” which do not fall under this law. [5] X Research source
Most sellers will not allow you to open a jar before purchasing. Ask whether you can taste a sample, but do not insist if one is not available.
Note that pure or adulterated honey is also sold in creamed (evenly crystallized) form or solid honeycomb form. These will always be difficult to dissolve, whether or not the honey is pure.
