> Some of you might know the answer to this:  Why does South Africa law
> require the irradiating of imported honey?  It is my understanding
> that the only honey that would benefit (if not damaged by this
> process) is honey that has been adulterated.

 I have been told by South Africans that it is basically as a disease
control
 method.  It is known that both European foulbrood, American foulbrood and
 chalkbrood spores are killed by irradiation.  All these three can be
 transferred in honey and South Africa was looking to keep diseases, they do
 not have, out.  Here in Australia, we use irradiated honey for making queen
 candy.

 I do not know if irradiation helps adulterated honey.  Maybe someone can
 enlighten us on this.

 Trevor Weatherhead
 AUSTRALIA

 www.superiorbee.com.au