Proceedings of the 1st International Conference - BeSafeBeeHoney (BEekeeping Products Valorization and Biomonitoring for the SAFEty of BEEs and HONEY)

Fluorescence spectroscopy (FS) is a highly sensitive optical technique widely used to assess food quality and safety, particularly in the case of honey and its products. Honey contains different compounds with intrinsic fluorescence (e.g. proteins, phenolics) and non- fluorescent compounds like sugar, minerals etc. Honey, as a complex system with multiple fluorphores, presents a challenge for spectral analysis due to the high overlap of fluorescence signals. Advanced mathematical methods (AMM) have been used to extract significant information regarding the chemical structure of components in various honey samples. Our previous research has shown successful applications of algorithms like multivariate curve resolution (MCR-ALS) and PARAFAC in the fluorescence spectral analysis of honey. Rapid detection of contaminants, like chemical pesticides, is crucial for protecting both honey consumers and beekeepers. Additionally, understanding how bees are treated by beekeepers is important. We have used optical tools combined with AMMs to gain insights into the health status of bees, while also discussing advancements and providing a future outlook for the use of optical sensor systems in honey quality assessment.