British honey tests reveal alarming traces of prescription drugs and pollutants

Thousands of jars of British honey could contain traces of prescription drugs, new research suggests. Scientists have discovered over 100 suspect chemicals in samples from 19 hives, with medicines making up nearly two-thirds of the contamination. Campaigners are now urging a ban on the use of sewage sludge in farming, fearing it may be the source of the problem.

The study found that bees are picking up contaminated pollen from crops sprayed with treated sewage. Once brought back to the hive, these chemicals end up in the honey. Among the drugs detected were potent treatments for cancer, fungal infections, and depression, alongside common painkillers like ibuprofen. Industrial chemicals and microplastics from sewage sludge were also present in the samples.

Britain imports around 90% of its honey, but the country still has roughly 250,000 beehives supplying local retailers. Current regulations require honey to be free from 'foreign' substances, yet no routine checks exist for 'contaminants of emerging concern,' such as pharmaceuticals or industrial pollutants. Researchers have called for urgent investigations into the risks this poses to consumers and the health of honeybees. Campaign groups are now pushing for stricter controls, including a ban on spreading sewage sludge on farmland. They argue that without action, the contamination could spread further, affecting more hives and increasing the risk to public health.

The findings raise concerns about the safety of British honey and the wider impact on bee populations. With no regular testing for these contaminants, the full extent of the problem remains unclear. Authorities may now face pressure to review farming practices and introduce stricter monitoring of honey production.