One in four honey jars in Croatia found to be fake

Fake honey flooding Croatian market

A recent inspection has revealed that every fourth jar of honey on the Croatian market is not genuine, confirming long-standing suspicions about adulterated products.

As RTL Danas reports, the latest analysis by the State Inspectorate has shown that a significant portion of honey sold in Croatia fails to meet official quality standards, raising concerns among domestic beekeepers.

Out of 50 honey samples tested, only 33 complied with the required regulations. Four samples failed quality tests, while in ten cases, sugar was found to have been added to the honey.

Three further samples remain under examination.

Experts warn that falsification methods have become increasingly sophisticated. Syrups are often added to genuine honey in varying proportions, sometimes up to 50 percent, making the end product appear authentic.

However, under official definitions, nothing may be added to or removed from natural honey.

Alongside the addition of sugar, false labelling is another widespread problem. Cheaper varieties, such as acacia honey, are often sold as more expensive types like sage honey, misleading consumers who are often unable to tell the difference.

Members of the Croatian Beekeepers’ Association stress that the market is flooded with poor-quality and frequently imported honey, which is sometimes sold as local produce.

They warn that this situation severely damages the reputation and livelihoods of honest Croatian beekeepers who follow proper production practices.

While genuine producers continue to uphold traditional standards and care for their bees, many say that counterfeit honey is undermining consumer trust.

The findings underline the need for stronger market controls and greater awareness among buyers to protect both consumers and Croatia’s beekeeping heritage.