Impact of storage period on different types of bee pollen pigments

Abstract

Pigments are anti-oxidants, which play an important role in protecting against many diseases. In this study, pigments of different bee pollen types (Sunflowers, Clover, Sesame and Maize) were determined with ethanol solvent and stored under freeze condition. Sunflower bee pollen had the highest amounts of the studied 23 pigments except three pigments. Maize bee pollens were superior to sunflower bee pollen in its content of the three exception pigments (Isozeaxanthin, Zeaxanthin and B- Zeaxanthin). In Sunflower bee pollen there were no significant differences between fresh bee pollen and those stored for 6 months in most of pigments as compared with 12 months storage. Sunflower bee pollen either fresh or stored for 6 months produced the highest values of Isozeaxanthin, Lutein, Lycopene, Violaxanthin, Zeaxanthin, 8- APO- B- Carten- 8- al, α – Carotene, s – Carotene and γ – Carotene compared to 12 months storage. However pigments of clover or sesame bee pollen were the lowest compared to sunflower and maize.