Characterization and differentiation of beech and chestnut honeydew honeys: A comparative study

Abstract

This study compares beech (Fagus sylvatica) and chestnut (Castanea sativa) honeydew honeys through analyses of physicochemical properties, pollen composition, phenolic and volatile compounds, and bioactivity. Beech honey exhibited higher antioxidant activity (up to 1.81 mmol TE/kg) compared to chestnut honey (0.79 mmol TE/kg), though both had similar total phenolic and flavonoid content. A total of 37 phenolic compounds, including propolis-derived flavonoids, were detected, with taxifolin and phenylamides as potential markers of botanical origin. Volatile profiles distinguished the types, with beech honey rich in 2-furanmethanol and nonanal, while chestnut honey had unique benzaldehyde and furfural notes. Both honeys demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity, with inhibition zones up to 20 mm and effective MICs (0.025–0.2 g/mL). Although not currently classified by botanical origin in EU regulations, the study highlights distinctive polyphenol and volatile profiles, as well as bioactive properties, between beech and chestnut honeydew honeys.