Homogentisic acid: a phenolic acid as a marker of strawberry-tree (Arbutus unedo) honey

J Agric Food Chem. 1999 Oct;47(10):4064-7. doi: 10.1021/jf990141o.

Abstract

Analysis of organic acids in strawberry-tree (Arbutus unedo) honey showed the presence of an unknown acid as the main constituent. This compound was isolated and identified as homogentisic acid (2, 5-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid) by MS and NMR techniques. Its average content in honey was 378 +/- 92 mg/kg. Analysis of nectar confirmed the floral origin of the compound found in honey. Since this acid was not detected in any of the different monofloral honeys, it could be used as a marker of strawberry-tree (A. unedo) honey.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
  • Food Analysis
  • Homogentisic Acid / isolation & purification*
  • Honey / analysis*
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Mass Spectrometry
  • Trees

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Homogentisic Acid