Assessing the Quality of Hive Products, Levels of Adulteration, and Major Adulterants along Each of the Value Chain Stages in Eastern Amhara Region

Adulteration of hive products, especially honey, has become a pressing issue in Eastern Amhara due to declining production and high market prices. This illegal practice threatens the quality and credibility of bee products, impacting producers, consumers, and the apiculture value chain. A regional survey involving 175 respondents and laboratory analysis of honey samples revealed widespread concern over adulteration, yet 59.43% had never received training on quality control. Awareness levels were low, 68.57% for honey and 81.71% for beeswax adulteration. Retailers (24.57%) and collectors (15.43%) were identified as key actors in adulteration, though 35.43% of respondents were unsure. Sugar and Alum, a locally known substance, "Sheb," were the most cited adulterants (68.57%). Notably, this study is the first to investigate "Sheb" or Alum as a mixing agent, revealing its role in facilitating high-ratio adulteration, typically at 1:4 honey-to-sugar when mixed directly, and up to 1:10 when or Alum is used. Adulteration peaks during harvest seasons when honey is more abundant and easier to mix in its liquid form. Lab tests confirmed "Sheb" or Alum contains toxic elements harmful to test animals. Adulterated honey showed elevated sucrose (3.06% to 8.76%) and HMF levels (33.83 mg/kg to 156.45 mg/kg), indicating significant quality degradation. Urgent action is necessary to protect the integrity of hive products. Promoting awareness, training, and risk mitigation strategies can help ensure a sustainable and trustworthy honey market in Eastern Amhara.