Abstract

The characterization of some Algerian northeast honey was carried out on the basis of their physico-chemical properties: moisture, hydroxymethylfurfural, diastase activity, pH, free, total and lactonic acidity, electrical conductivity, mineral and proline content. Studied samples are found to be low in moisture and therefore safe from fermentation, low in HMF level and high in diastase activity. Additionally, the diastase activity and the HMF content are widely recognized parameters indicating the freshness of honey. The quality of honey samples differs on account of various factors such as season, packaging and processing conditions, floral source, geographical origin and storage period. It is important that precautions should be taken to ensure standardization and rationalization of beekeeping techniques, manufacturing procedures and storing processes to improve honey quality.

Key words: Honey, physico-chemical characterisation, HMF, diastase activity.