The CSE condemned major Indian honey brands, Dabur, Patanjali and Zandu for selling adulterated honey to mass consumers. CSE director general Sunita Narrian alleged the companies for mixing a modified Chinese sugar for sweetness making the honey detrimental for consumption, specifically in times of COVID-19 when people are choosing honey for its anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers selected the top 13 brands and testified them at CALF and NDBB from which Apis Himalaya passed the test, the rest were found adulterated. Dabur, Patanjali and Zandu denied allegations of the CSE.