engleski

Melissopalynological and Sensory Characteristics of Croatian Fir (Abies alba Mill.) Honeydew Honey

Honeydew honeys are specific type of honey whose origin derives mainly from specific secretion of plant sucking aphids (honeydew) persisting on both deciduous and coniferous plant taxa, secretions that were collected by the bees and transformed into the honeydew honey. Basic differentiation from nectar honeys comprises in measuring of the electrical conductivity that is, with some exceptions for particular nectar honeys, generally accepted at minimal level of 0.8 mS/cm. Other characterization parameters are sometimes somewhat neglected although having definite characterization potential. In that regard total of 17 representative fir tree (Abies alba Mill.) honeydew honey samples deriving from central mountain region of Croatia (Gorski Kotar) were assessed by means of melissopalynological and sensory analyses. This specific honeydew honey is one of the most appreciated honeys of Croatia. It is prevalent in central mountain region of Croatia where its peak production varies in cycles of 5 to 7 years according to field observances. Being so peculiar, this honey represents intrinsic meaning as being the “only honey” for that region, reaching top level prices. However, in Croatia, it has rarely been studied for its specific features. Studied samples were submitted to detailed melissopalynological assessment in order to obtain detailed characterization of pollen profile, comprising representation of both nectariferous and non nectariferous botanical taxa as well as the honeydew elements. Comprehensive sensory analyses were performed as well and sensory parameters of fir tree honeydew honey (visual, odor, taste and tactile characteristics) were reviewed in details with specific accent to the occurrence or absence of defects in honey samples.

honeydew honey; fir tree; Abies alba Mill.; melissopalynological features; sensory assessment; botanical origin

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