NMR assessment of European acacia honey origin and composition of EU-blend based on geographical floral markers

Abstract

A geographical discrimination of honey is an important prerequisite for quality and authenticity control. Here, we present a method based on an NMR-metabolomic analysis of organic extracts for a geographical discrimination of commercial European acacia honeys found on the Italian market. All 234 analysed samples show the characteristic ¹H NMR profile of acacia (Robinia pseudoacacia) honey. However, a PLS2-DA model revealed variations among production zones allowing the successful geographical differentiation with a 100% of overall correct classification rate. Moreover, a PLS2 model is able to predict the proportions in binary blends of Italian and Eastern European acacia honeys. The geographical distinction and the possibility to characterize the content of blends derive from different markers content originating from minor nectar contributions of the acacia-accompanying flora.

Keywords: Acacia honey; Botanical and geographical origins; EU acacia honey blends; Honey markers; Melissopalynological analysis; Metabolomics; NMR.