Molecules, Vol. 26, Pages 3746: Conventional and Organic Honeys as a Source of Water- and Ethanol Soluble Molecules with Nutritional and Antioxidant Characteristics

Molecules, Vol. 26, Pages 3746: Conventional and Organic Honeys as a Source of Water- and Ethanol Soluble Molecules with Nutritional and Antioxidant Characteristics Molecules doi: 10.3390/molecules26123746 Authors: Magdalena Polak-Śliwińska Małgorzata Tańska The benefits of natural honeybee products (e.g., honey, royal jelly, beeswax, propolis, beevenom and pollen) to the immune system are remarkable, and many of them are involved in the induction of antibody production, maturation of immune cells and stimulation of the immune system. The type of plants in the geographical area, climatic conditions and production method have a significantly influence on the nutritional quality of honey. However, this variability can influence consumer liking by the sensory attributes of the product. The aim of this work was to compare the most popular honeys from Poland in terms of nutritional value, organoleptic properties and antioxidant activity. In the study, five varieties of honey (honeydew, forest, buckwheat, linden and dandelion) from conventional and organic production methods were tested. The nutritional characteristics of honey samples included acidity, content of water, sugars, vitamin C, HMF and phenolics (total and flavonoids), while honey color, taste, aroma and consistency were investigated in the organoleptic characteristics. The antioxidant activity was determined in water- and ethanol-soluble honey extracts using DPPH and ORAC tests. The results showed that or...
Source: Molecules - Category: Chemistry Authors: Tags: Article Source Type: research