Berlin (dpa) – Honey jars often have vague labeling regarding their origin, typically stating a mixture “from EU countries and non-EU countries.” However, this will soon change due to a European directive requiring more specific country of origin information based on weight percentage. The German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture is moving forward with regulations for national compliance. Consumer advocates see this as a long-overdue step and are pushing for additional mandatory origin labeling.
Minister Alois Rainer stated to the German Press Agency: “With precise origin labeling, consumers will clearly know where their honey comes from. This is the transparency we need.” Clear labeling promotes fair competition and facilitates the choice of local products.
Previous labeling vague
Currently, origin labeling must be provided as mandated by an EU directive. However, when honey comes from multiple countries, it can still be generalized, stating “from EU countries,” “non-EU countries,” or simply “a mixture of honey from EU and non-EU countries.”
The consumer organization Foodwatch has criticized this, saying: “For consumers, such labeling might be interesting.” It offers no more clarity than “Origin: Planet Earth.” More specific labels, such as “from Latin America” or “Chile, Guatemala, and Uruguay,” are somewhat better.
Now, mandatory country of origin labeling for mixtures will be introduced, requiring the countries to be listed in descending order of their contribution, along with their weight percentage. A singular country of origin will still be indicated without a percentage, for example, “Honey from Germany.”
New rules to take effect from mid-2026
The EU directive adopted in 2024 must be translated into German law by December 14. The new rules are scheduled to take effect on June 14, 2026. Products produced, filled, and labeled according to previous standards by the deadline can still be sold afterward, as outlined by the ministry spokesperson. This allows for a 24-month transition period for the industry.
Foodwatch managing director Chris Methmann remarked on the new rules: “Transparent origin labeling for honey is long overdue.” Consumers want clarity about their food sources and consistent checks against “honey adulteration,” such as with sugar syrup.
Germany is a honey-importing country
The need for honey mixtures arises because domestic production in Germany does not meet demand. The self-sufficiency rate fell to 37 percent last year, a decrease of 5 percentage points, according to Ministry of Agriculture data. Consequently, 72,600 tons were imported, with Ukraine (22 percent), Argentina (14 percent), Romania, and Mexico (7 percent each) being the main sources. (September 8)
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