It is not so sweet after all. And for those who like to start their day with a glass of warm water, lemon juice and a spoonful of honey, it is time to watch out. What was once associated with purity and natural health benefits, honey is now under the scanner as a report from the Centre for Science and Environment reveals that popular honey brands in the country are allegedly contaminated with high levels of antibiotics that are bad for health. After allegedly poisonous veggies, adulterated milk and even mineral water, adulteration in honey comes as no surprise to consumers, who are just puzzled about what to buy. The revelations about nature’s gold have got many thinking that if good is now bad, what is healthy for them?
“When you live in a polluted environment chemicals are bound to be present in products. But at the same time, within an environment there are filters and safety factors that help in keeping the right balance. Similarly, our body knows how to fight these toxins, which are brought in by various products of everyday use. You can’t stop consuming honey altogether. But ensure that you take it from a brand that you trust,” says Sandeep, a gym instructor in West Delhi.
Dr Nisha Malhotra, a dietician suggests that it’s best to rely on organic products as it is better than big labels. “We often end up believing that anything international is bound to be healthy, but it is not true. Organic farmers mostly use natural fertilisers, such as manure or compost, to feed the soil and plants, and these products are trustworthy. But having said that, organic products can still cause allergic reactions, so if you are allergic to certain plant-based ingredients be careful and check with your doctor before using them,” she says.
Gynaecologist Dr Preeti Raheja seconds that and advises that since we can’t avoid using products available in the market, it is better to be cautious while picking up specific brands. “Be it preservatives or fresh vegetables, nothing is too safe, but these chemicals won’t affect your body if there is no regular intake. For instance, don’t eat too much honey in this case. Avoid excessive use of anything. In case of veggies, wash them properly. You will have to take the responsibility of your own health,” she adds.
For those who have long held the belief that granulated or crystallised honey is proof of adulteration, experts bust these myths.
Avers Dr Ishi Khosla, clinical nutritionist, “You can’t check the quality of honey, or any product for that matter. These tests are done only in laboratories. What we need to look at is the bigger picture of this problem. We need proper tests on any commodity that is being sold in the market.”
Having said that it seems like there’s no end to the madness and all we can do is wait for better systems of checking adulteration, till then be extremely careful about the brands you are addicted to.