FLORA-TYPE IDENTIFICATION AND QUALITY EVALUATION OF SOME HONEY TYPES

Floral identification of six of the most commonly used honeys was investigated and their chemical characteristics were reported and compared with the Saudi Standards on honey. Microscopic examination confirmed the origin of the honey claimed by the manufacturer. 'Sugar-feed' honey was significantly (P < 0.05) the lowest in moisture and pH, but the highest in sucrose, while 'Buck thorn-sidir' was the highest in ash and pH, but the lowest in sucrose. Water-insoluble solids (WIS) as well as fructose/glucose ratio (F/G) values were nearly the same for all samples. Higher diastase activity (DIA) was found in 'Buck thorn-Zaarorah' followed by 'Pot marigold-kateefah'. However, DIA in 'Alfalfa-Berseem Higazi' was below the limit set by the Saudi Standard. Honey samples, except 'Buck thorn-Sidir' and 'Buck thorn-Zaarorah', exceeded the maximum level of hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF) set by the Saudi Standard. Individual mineral contents varied among samples and were present in abundance, particularly, phosphorus and potassium. Vitamins were generally very low and ascorbic acid was only high in 'Buck thorn-Zaarorah'.