Effects of long term storage on stingless bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini) honey

The long term storage effects on stingless bee (Tetragonula laeviceps-pagdeni) honey from SE Asia (Thailand) were examined using physicochemical parameters. Fresh stingless bee honey was stored at 4, 30, and 45 degrees C for 6 and 12months. The results show that the moisture, ash, and electrical conductivity change little over time and temperature storage. The total acidity increased when stored for 6 and 12months. pH, diastase, and HMF demonstrated statistically significant changes for both time and temperature storage. The carbohydrates (fructose, glucose, and maltose) decreased during time and temperature storage, but the changes were not statistically significant. Storage for the longest time period (12months) and highest temperature (45 degrees C) resulted in the greatest changes. Storage at 4 degrees C for 12months resulted in the least change and the honey was, by and large, unchanged from fresh honey.