Honey is one of the most commonly faked foods in the world. Many companies mix sugar syrup, corn syrup, or additives and sell it as “honey.” Knowing the difference between real vs fake honey can help you protect your health and money. Here are simple tests anyone can try at home.

1. Water Test (Most Popular)
Take a glass of water and add one spoon of honey.
- Real honey sinks to the bottom and stays thick.
- Fake honey dissolves quickly because it contains sugar or water.
2. Thumb Test
Put a drop of honey on your thumb.
- Real honey stays in one place.
- Fake honey spreads or runs because it is diluted.
3. Flame Test
Dip a cotton wick in honey and try to burn it.
- oRGANIC honey burns slightly because it has no added moisture.
- Fake honey won’t burn (water content is high).
⚠️ Do this test carefully.
4. Aroma & Taste
- Real honey has a mild floral smell and natural aftertaste.
- Fake honey smells sweet but has no natural aroma.
5. Crystallization
- Real honey becomes thick or crystalizes in cold weather.
- Fake honey stays watery because sugar syrup does not crystalize naturally.
6. Paper Test
Put a drop of honey on tissue paper.
- Organic honey does not spread.
- Fake honey spreads or soaks into the paper.
7. Label Check
If the label says:
❌ Glucose
❌ Fructose syrup
❌ Corn syrup
❌ Added flavors
… then it’s fake or mixed honey.
Always choose honey from trusted beekeepers.
Conclusion
Understanding Organic vs fake honey is important for your health. Real pure honey is thicker, aromatic, and does not dissolve quickly. Fake honey is watery, overly sweet, and mixes easily in water. Use these tests to make sure you’re buying the right honey for your family.