Characterization of a distinctive marker for monofloral honey of <i>Bauhinia championii</i> (Benth.) Benth. by combining untargeted, and targeted mass spectrometry analyses

The monofloral honey derived from <em>Bauhinia championii (Benth.) Benth.</em> (MH-<em>Bc</em>) possesses significant nutritional and bioactive value, making it highly suitable for commercial exploitation. However, the poorly defined characteristics and unknown composition have hindered MH<em>-Bc</em> product development. In this study, we employed a combination of untargeted and targeted mass spectrometry analyses to characterize MH-<em>Bc</em> honey. As a result, 4,7,8-trimethoxydibenzo[b,d]furan-3-ol (TDBF) was identified as a robust chemical marker for distinguishing MH-<em>Bc</em> from other types of honey. This specific marker was detected in both MH-<em>Bc</em> and the <em>Bc</em> plant but was absent in other honey varieties. Furthermore, a targeted mass spectrometry quantitative method was developed and validated to accurately determine the content of TDBF in honey samples. Overall, the presence of TDBF serves as a discerning indicator for future commercial MH-<em>Bc</em> products.