Traditional Mead “Bessoudioury” from Senegal: Process and Characterization

Abstract

Mead is a beverage obtained by alcoholic fermentation of honey, with an ethanol content of 8% to 18% by volume. In Africa, mead manufacturing methods rely on heating honey and adding extracts of fruits, herbs or spices. “Bessoudioury” mead is then prepared according to the traditional process of the Bassari and Bedick peoples of Kedougou (Senegal). This work on “Bessoudioury” aims to describe and characterize the manufacturing processes. It was also to evaluate the chemical and microbiological characteristics. The study focused on three Kedougou production sites. The manufacturing process of “Bessoudioury” includes a honey heating, a formulation step by adding wine of either Borassus aethiopicum Mart. or Elaeis guineensis. This step is followed by a fermentation’s one during two days. Wine is considered as the essential sources of yeasts for the production of alcohol. “Bessoudioury” has an ethanol content of 8% (v/v). Moulds and Streptococcus were not detected in this mead. According to its polyphenols content, this mead has a nutritional interest, but the process deserves to be reviewed to preserve nutrients.