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Standards Development
This European Standard focuses on only those aspects that are specific for honey reference samples and is designed to be used in conjunction with the CEN generic sampling protocol for food authenticity. It provides guidance on the collection of honey reference samples for inclusion in authenticity databases. It ensures that such databases contain data derived from ‘authentic’ honey samples that are representative of the defined scope of the database. The document outlines practical methodologies for collecting reference samples across the honey supply chain, with relevant examples given for illustration, emphasizing the importance of homogeneity, integrity, and traceability. It includes a ranking system that rates samples according to evidence of their traceability, for example, reference samples that can be evidenced to be taken directly from the hive are rated higher than reference samples taken from further down the supply chain or samples where traceability information may be incomplete. The scope of this standard does not encompass legal definitions of honey or compositional requirements and it is also neutral with regard to interpretation of the results using authenticity databases. Additionally, it is not intended for sampling honey for routine authenticity testing, nor does it cover non-honey reference samples, such as syrups or bee feeding materials
There are a number of commercial honey authenticity databases currently being used for assessing the integrity of honey. It is necessary to ensure that databases are fit-for-purpose and contain data derived from ‘authentic’ reference honey samples that are representative of their defined scope. The composition of honey may vary significantly along the supply chain and also depending on geographical, environmental, climatic and temporal factors. For example, honey from the same geographic or floral origin may also vary significantly from year-to-year. It is therefore essential that the homogeneity, integrity, and provenance of honey reference samples used to compile honey authenticity databases can be assured and assessed to ensure that reference honey samples included in databases match the defined scope of the database. This proposal delivers a protocol for a practical process for obtaining reference samples at different points in the honey supply chain for use in authenticity databases with relevant examples given for illustration. It specifies what associated records, documents and other considerations are required for a sample to be included in a honey authenticity database. This protocol focuses on only those aspects that are specific for honey reference samples and is designed to be used in conjunction with the CEN generic sampling protocol for food authenticity. Note: in case the WI is based on documents from other organizations than ISO/IEC, please specify it here. UK Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs, 2023. Protocol for the Collection of Honey Reference Samples for the Construction of Authenticity Databases available at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/66e816f210f8726dc23aa194/ANNEX_Forms_28_ 8_24_Final-_honey_protocol_with_online_forms.pdf
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