Determination of the superior quality properties of randomly selected chestnut honey samples from the Sinop region

Abstract

Abstract In this study, a total of 43 chestnut honey samples were randomly selected and collected from the Erfelek, Ayancık, and Türkeli districts of Sinop. The pollen content of all honey samples was determined, revealing that chestnut pollen accounted for over 90% in most cases. The chestnut honey from the Sinop region is considered of high quality compared to other chestnut honeys, primarily due to its low HMF (Hydroxymethylfurfural) levels, low moisture content, high proline content, and significant pollen content. The antibacterial activities of these honey samples were assessed using the agar well diffusion method, Minimal Inhibitory Concentrations (MIC), and Minimal Bactericidal Concentrations (MBC) methods. It is worth mentioning that certain samples exhibited significant activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with inhibition zones ranging from 15 to 20 mm, which is comparable to standard antibiotics. The antioxidant activities of all honey samples were evaluated using a 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazine assay. The results obtained indicate that the chestnut honey produced from the chestnut forests in the Sinop province meets the criteria outlined in the Turkish Food Codex Honey Communiqué. The high proline content exceeding 1000 mg/kg and very low hydroxymethyl furfural values below 1 mg/kg observed in certain chestnut honey samples contribute to their high quality and safety. Additionally, the average pH of 4.81 and free acidity values below 50 meq/kg recorded for the analyzed honeys further reinforce these findings.