Determination of oxalic acid and other organic acids in honey and in some anatomic structures of bees

Abstract

The use of two ion-exclusion columns coupled in series allows the liquid chromatographic determination of the oxalic acid content in honey and in some anatomic structures of bees, and avoids interference from other components of the matrix. To obtain a profile of organic acids, it is advisable to couple of four columns in series. The oxalic acid concentration in the rectum, Malpighian tubules, digestive tract and haemolymph is strongly influenced by the application mode (topical or oral). Results obtained demonstrate that in topical administration oxalic acid penetrates through the keratin.