Health Ministry warns lactose intolerant of milk traces found in popular honey brand

The Health Ministry on Friday issued a public warning to those with milk allergies, after traces of milk protein were discovered in a popular honey brand.

The Yad Mordechai company (partially owned by the Strauss Group food manufacturer) announced that all of its honey products with best-before dates from January 2, 2025, and April 14, 2025, should not be consumed by those with milk allergies.

“It is important to note that all honey products are safe to consume for those who are not allergic to milk,” the company said in a statement carried by the Health Ministry.

After several complaints, Yad Mordechai tested its products. “Minimal traces of milk proteins were found in one of the honey sources of Yad Mordechai honey. These residues are likely from the bees, due to milk proteins in their feeding or them being near sources of milk,” the firm said said.

“This honey, which contained traces of milk proteins, originated abroad and is part of the blend that makes up Yad Mordechai honey, together with Israeli honey, due to a constant shortage of honey in Israel,” it added.

The company said it was working to collect the contaminated products and add a “may contain traces of milk” label.

The ministry said it would test other honey brands in Israel following the incident.