Identification of Traceability Markers in Italian Unifloral Honeys of different Botanical Origin

Abstract

In this study we carried out the analysis of three varieties of unifloral honey of acacia (Robinia pseudoacacia), chestnut (Castanea sativa) and sulla (Hedysarum coronarium), in order to assess physicochemical and biochemical parameters, nutraucetical properties and antioxidant capacities. The three different varieties of unifloral honey showed clear differences in some parameters, such as the concentration of polyphenols, flavonoids, mineral elements, as well as different profiles of volatile molecules. These parameters allow differentiating the three varieties of unifloral honey investigated. The different concentration of polyphenols and flavonoids, the profile of volatile compounds and the presence of different concentration of some mineral elements allow discriminating different varieties of honey, and could be used as markers of product traceability. Moreover, the high concentration of some macro elements such as potassium, remarkably high in the chestnut honey, makes it especially useful in individuals with deficiency of these mineral or practicing sports.