> The larger packers have started testing the honey for contaminates
> that are 'rumored' to be used by beekeepers.

Apparently Wal-Mart already demands a bacterial count and other test reports
as well.

My guess is that within a few years, suppliers will be required to provide
HACCP (or similar) documentation and also carry product liability insurance.
Ability/inability to obtain insurance may turn out to be a factor in
survival for commercial beekeepers.

If North American beekeepers get smart, and get with the program, this trend
to demanding rigourous documentation may prove to be a beneficial and help
maintain price for qualifying product, inasmuch as some low-priced imported
product may have difficulty providing a truly convincing history and a
reassuring enough paper trail to satisfy careful corporate buyers -- and
their insurers.

allen
A Beekeeper's Diary: http://www.honeybeeworld.com/diary/

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