This 2-day in-person seminar, taught in English, is organised by the Global Honey Integrity Council. The scientific lead is Dr Kairi Rairne, of University of Tartu, Estonia.
The seminar focusses on the application of DNA metagenomics to honey classification and authenticity testing. This is a technique that has not historically been viewed as applicable to honey but was the analytical basis of recent peer-reviewed publications reporting widespread honey mislabelling in the European market.
Venue: 2-3 November 2026 · Willingen (Upland), Germany
Two-day in-person seminar · Taught in English · Maximum 22 participants
The seminar connects scientific principles with workflow, case interpretation and validation.
Learning focus
• Understand sampling, DNA extraction, sequencing and bioinformatics.
• Distinguish PCR/qPCR, metabarcoding and untargeted metagenomics.
• Assess DNA signatures, database gaps, contamination and interpretation errors.
• Discuss validation, comparability and use in official or accredited laboratory settings.
• Place metagenomics alongside proteomics, LC-HRMS, NMR and IRMS.
Who should attend?
Official and private laboratories, authorities, universities and researchers, food-fraud and authenticity specialists, quality management, certification and inspection organisations.
Fees (excluding VAT)
Public authorities / public universities EUR 1,390
Standard Professional EUR 1,590
Commercial laboratories / industry / retail EUR 1,790
Registration is by competion and return of an application form. The application form can be downloaded here.
