[log in to unmask] (mailto:[log in to unmask])  writes  about the in 
depth article on honey laundering:  
 
_http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/394053_honey30.asp_ 
(http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/394053_honey30.asp) 
 
I've been waiting for this article. 
 
Last spring, a customs agent contacted me about this issue - he had a good  
start on all of this, took it personal, he and his wife use honey, have  
children, try to feed them quality food.  He was distressed by lack of  interest 
from FDA, and surprised to find how much of this was going on, as well  as all of 
the ways in which the product was being brought in, and some of the  people 
who were involved.
 
Then, Andrew Schneider, the Seattle P.I. reporter, contacted me.   He's spent 
several months on what he thought was going to be a short  article.  He's 
been all over the U.S. tracking this story.
 
He met with Dave Westerveld and myself in MT, when Dave was here for the MT  
beekeeping meetings.
 
Not sure how we got involved with all of this, but both were looking for  
contacts within the bee industry who would help them sort all of this  out.  I 
directed them toward contacts at the national bee  associations, who had had a 
history fighting dumping, adulterated  honey, the AHPA lawyer, etc.  I was 
amused when both said that they  weren't sure why they had my name, but that 
numerous people had referred them to  me.
 
Both knew more about this, than I; but neither knew much about the  structure 
or contacts within the national beekeeping associations.  So, did  my best to 
introduce them to those in the bee industry who don't like these  practices, 
still value quality U.S. honey.
 
As I understand, there may be a series of stories.  Will be interested  to 
see if charges are filed.  At least one customs agent wants to see some  folks 
prosecuted and put in jail.
 
Talking with Andrew and the customs agent, this story is complex, runs  deep, 
involves some surprising people and countries.
 
Jerry


 
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