Food Safety Focus (221st Issue, December 2024) – Article 4

Beware of Mad Honey Poisoning

Recently, several cases of mad honey poisoning involving the consumption of honey brought from overseas were reported locally and all affected persons required treatment in hospitals. Upon testing, grayanotoxin was detected in some honey remnants.

Mad honey poisoning is caused by the ingestion of honey containing grayanotoxins. Rhododendrons and other plants in the Ericaceae family are the source of grayanotoxins. Grayanotoxins are neurotoxins which can affect nerves and muscles. Symptoms of mad honey poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea and dizziness. In severe cases, hypotension, bradycardia or shock may occur. Honey containing grayanotoxin may cause a burning sensation in the throat when consumed.

To reduce the risk of mad honey poisoning, the public and the trade should purchase honey from a reliable source or apiary. Pay special attention when bringing or importing honey from regions including India, Nepal and the Black Sea region of Türkiye where honey-related grayanotoxin poisoning cases have been reported. Discard honey with a bitter or astringent taste. The Centre for food Safety has enhanced public education on mad honey poisoning through various channels, including social media and its website.