Characterization of Zygophyllum album L Monofloral Honey from El-Oued, Algeria

Abstract

Background: Honey is generally evaluated by physicochemical analysis of its constituents. The manipulation of honey and its possible adulteration is reflected in many of its physicochemical properties. Objective: In this study, samples of Zygophyllum album L honey produced in El-Oued, Algeria, were characterized based on their melissopalynology, physicochemical and antioxidant properties, also polyphenol content. Methods: The physicochemical parameters of honey, such as density, moisture content, pH, free acidity, electrical conductivity (EC), total sugar content, color intensity, water insoluble solids content, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), ash, specific rotation, were measured. A number of antioxidant tests were performed to determine the antioxidant properties of Zygophyllum album L honey samples. The polyphenol in the Zygophyllum album L honey was measured by spectrometric determination based on folin-ciocalteu’s method. The identification and quantification of phenolic compounds were carried out by RP-HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography). Results: All honey samples contained monofloral (67.83-91.89%) pollen belonging to Zygophyllum album L. The results of physicochemical parameters of analyzed honeys were: pH 4.33, moisture 17.2%, free acidity 41.96 meq/kg, electrical conductivity 0.408 mS/cm, HMF 11.89 mg/kg, Ash 0.246 (%), specific rotation -8.21. The Zygophyllum album L honey was extra white amber. The total sugar content ranged from 81.5 to 83. Honey samples contain high levels of gallic acid (252.53±15.56 mg/kg honey), chlorogenic acid (124.71±10.09 mg/kg) and low amounts of total polyphenol (467.82±46,98 mg GAE/kg). Conclusion: Physicochemical parameters (total acidity, pH, moisture, dry matter, ash, and qualitative hydroxymethylfurfural) were within the approved limits established by International Honey Commission.