Physicochemical and sensory analysis of honeys from eastern Formosa province (Argentina) and its relationship with their botanical origin

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze honeys from eastern Formosa province, Argentina. Honey samples (n = 96) were collected between 2009 and 2012 and stored in plastic jars until analysis. Pollen and physicochemical analyses were performed taking into account the methodology of Louveaux et al. (1978) and AOAC (1990). A sensory analysis was also carried out by a group of semitrained panelists. The predominant color of the honeys evaluated was amber and light amber, associated with the pollen diversity of the native flora. Honeys from pollen of Schinopsis balansae and Copernicia alba presented high levels of mineral cations. Dark honeys presented higher intensity of the floral fresh fruity and woody aromas, whereas amber honeys presented higher intensity of the vegetal aroma. Honeys from pollen of Eugenia uniflora, Schinopsis balansae, Astronium balansae and Prosopis sp. presented fresh aroma with the licorice descriptor.