What does the honey DNA profile do for me?
For the honey DNA profile, the detection of organism groups relevant to honey (animals, plants, bacteria and fungi) as well as selected pathogens and parasites is carried out. This allows conclusions to be drawn about the authenticity and regionality of the product.
It is also possible to classify the geographical origin based on the DNA traces of the detected species.
The comprehensive test report lists all species found and illustrates the percentage match of the DNA molecules with the sequence database. The honey is also categorized as plausible, suspicious or implausible based on the results using a traffic light system.
How can I recognize counterfeit honey with DNA analysis?
To do this, we analyze the DNA in the honey: it is first extracted and amplified using a PCR (polymerase chain reaction). This is followed by sequencing and a comparison with the species in the reference databases to clearly identify the plant or animal species contained (basic profile) and also bacteria and fungi (extended honey DNA profile). This enables us to create a detailed DNA profile.
This analysis requires not only state-of-the-art technology, but also extensive data processing and specialized expertise – all of which we can guarantee in our team. This enables us to track down honey counterfeiters.
Frequent counterfeiting methods include the addition of syrups or a very low proportion of the declared plant species in the product. Our analysis is an effective tool to ensure that honey can continue to be marketed credibly and safely as a high-quality natural product.
Why should I do a DNA analysis of honey?
Honey decay is a major issue and represents a major problem for beekeepers, consumers, agriculture and society.
Without the pollination service provided by bees, our food safety can no longer be guaranteed. Our DNA analyses can identify genuine honey and trace its geographical origin. This is achieved by comparing the DNA sequences in the honey with international, publicly accessible sequence databases.
So-called key species, which are often less common than honey plants, can be used to draw conclusions about the geographical origin.
Traces of species that are expected or not expected to occur in honey provide information about authenticity.