The USDA Just Made Upstream Honey Sellers Pay Extra Before It Hits Your Shelf
A mandatory assessment hike on honey packers and importers takes effect Sept. 30, raising upstream supply chain costs before retail and restaurant restocking.
By Foodie Pundit Newsroom - Published - Updated - Section: Agriculture Supply
Key points
- USDA raised the mandatory honey assessment from 1.5 cents to 2 cents per pound for covered packers and importers, effective September 30, 2026.
- The documented cost increase lands before honey reaches grocery shelves and restaurant kitchens, but the record does not prove any specific retail or menu-price increase.
- USDA’s record shows the Honey Packers and Importers Board recommended the increase; it does not include lobbying, company ownership, contract, or misconduct evidence.
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