Singapore Led Initiative Unveils World’s First Certification Framework for Stingless Bee Honey

Singapore has taken a significant step towards shaping the future of the global honey industry with the unveiling of the world’s first certification framework for Stingless Bee Honey. The initiative was announced at the Stingless Bee Honey Global Symposium held at Temasek Polytechnic and represents a collaboration between Stingless Bee Factor Pte Ltd, Temasek Polytechnic and the United Kingdom’s Fera Science Ltd.

The new framework aims to establish internationally recognised quality standards for Stingless Bee Honey, an emerging category that has attracted growing interest for its potential health benefits. By developing a science-based certification system, the partners hope to position Singapore as a global reference point for future standards and international adoption.

With the global honey market valued at more than US$10 billion annually, premium varieties such as Manuka honey have demonstrated how scientific validation and certification can transform traditional agricultural products into high value health and wellness offerings. Through this initiative, Stingless Bee Factor Pte Ltd and its research partners aim to unlock similar opportunities for Stingless Bee Honey by supporting the development of functional food and nutraceutical innovations.

As the Singapore based company leading the project, Stingless Bee Factor Pte Ltd is leveraging its expanding international distribution network to bring Singapore developed research, product innovation and scientific expertise to global markets. A key contributor is Temasek Polytechnic’s Glycemic Index Research Unit, whose work in nutrition research and accredited glycemic index testing supports the scientific validation of Stingless Bee Honey.

The collaboration is also expected to create long term economic opportunities for Singapore through international partnerships, commercialisation efforts and the development of new products based on Stingless Bee Honey and related technologies.

An important international partner in the initiative is Fera Science Ltd from the United Kingdom, which is widely recognised for its expertise in honey standards and scientific validation. Its involvement strengthens the credibility of the proposed certification framework and supports efforts to encourage wider international acceptance.

Interest in Stingless Bee Honey has been growing due to its potential antibacterial, antioxidant and low glycemic index properties. Researchers from Temasek Polytechnic’s Glycemic Index Research Unit and Centre for Complementary Health Products have been studying these characteristics to better understand their potential applications in nutrition, preventive healthcare and nutraceutical development.

Among the findings presented during the symposium were the validation of the honey’s antibacterial and antioxidant properties, along with research supporting its low glycemic index functionality. These studies contribute to the growing body of scientific evidence surrounding Stingless Bee Honey and support its evolution from a traditional food product into a science backed ingredient with broader health and commercial potential.

Researchers also highlighted the significance of developing the world’s first low glycemic index Stingless Bee Honey at a time when diabetes rates continue to rise globally and consumers are seeking healthier dietary alternatives. The symposium explored how low glycemic index nutrition can support public health initiatives and healthier eating habits.

As the industry lead, Stingless Bee Factor Pte Ltd has played a central role in bringing together international experts, researchers and academic institutions to develop the proposed certification framework and encourage its adoption across global markets. The initiative is expected to strengthen Singapore’s position as a leader in functional food research, nutrition innovation and international standards development.

Jointly organised by Stingless Bee Factor Pte Ltd and Temasek Polytechnic, the Stingless Bee Honey Global Symposium brought together researchers, industry stakeholders, international experts and strategic partners to discuss the future of Stingless Bee Honey research, certification and functional food innovation. The event also serves as a lead up to the official launch of the certification framework in Kuala Lumpur on 11 July 2026.