A Second Honey RMP Audit Provider Emerges

Honey processors now have a new option when it comes to seeking verification for their Risk Management Programme (RMP) or National Programme 1 (NP1) facilities, with well-known laboratory Hill Labs stepping into the space recently.

Better known for their extensive honey testing services, Hill Labs, based out of Hamilton, acquired two Canterbury-based food-auditing companies in 2025, now operating under the well-established Hill Labs brand.

It means beekeepers and honey processors now have a second provider for RMP inspection and verification nationally, with the Hill Labs service providing an alternative to AsureQuality.

“Our joint venture has performed strongly,” says Hill Labs managing director Jono Hill.

“We’ve seen solid uptake from industry. Customers have responded positively to increased competition in the market. Bringing these inspection and certification services under the Hill Labs brand gives customers further clarity and confidence.”

The verification team leader, Paul Sweetman, amassed 17 years’ experience as an auditor with AsureQuality before joining the Hill Labs team.

RMP verification allows export of honey or bee products and requires, at least, annual verification checks, while NP1 registration permits domestic selling.