Melissopalynology, antioxidant activity and multielement analysis of two types of early spring honeys from Hungary

Abstract

Two types of early spring Hungarian honeys, purchased as rape (Brassica napus L.) and ramson (Allium ursinum L.) honeys were identified and characterized. The 42 samples originated from various geographical locations, harvested in two different years. The unifloral origin of rape honeys was supported using melissopalynological analysis, while the samples marketed as ramson honeys were of multifloral origin with predominantly fruit tree or rape pollen grains. Color intensity and antioxidant capacities measured with 4 methods differed in uni- and multifloral honeys, but location and year of harvest had no influence within the honey types. Correlations were observed among antioxidant capacity values and color. The analysis of elements showed that essential elements were present in higher amounts in multifloral honeys, while in rape honeys the influence of geographical origin was observed. The concentrations of several toxic elements were below the detection limit (<0.1 mg kg−1) in the samples, indicating their good quality. Microscopical pollen analysis of honeys was used effectively to confirm their botanical origin, which was the most important factor to influence all of the measured parameters. Pollen spectrum, antioxidant potential and element content of honeys all served as useful indicators of their quality. Because of the large number of samples, this multi-level study provides reliable data about two types of early spring Hungarian honeys both for producers and consumers.