Biochemical, antioxidants, and mineral constituents of stingless bee honey

Introduction Floral honey has gained attention for its host-specific phytochemicals, which are associated with various health benefits, such as wound healing, reducing inflammation, and offering antioxidant protection. Stingless bee honey, in particular is renowned for its medicinal benefits. Methods This study compares the pH, electrical conductivity (EC), moisture content, total protein, antioxidant activity, sugar content, and mineral composition of four floral honey samples from the stingless bee, Tetragonula iridipennis and an Italian bee, Apis mellifera . Results The pH of T. iridipennis honey ranged from 3.36 to 3.46, lower than A. mellifera honey (4.48). The EC of T. iridipennis honey (1.01–1.13 mS/cm) was higher than A. mellifera honey (0.58 mS/cm), indicating a greater mineral content. Additionally, T. iridipennis honey showed higher moisture content (16.53–19.79%), protein (825–1184.33 μg/g), antioxidant activity (323.05–353.47 mg/100 g), and mineral concentrations. Discussion This study compares the physicochemical and mineral components of T. iridipennis and A. mellifera honey. Significant correlations were found between pH and key components, with T. iridipennis honey showing superior nutritional and medicinal value due to its higher biochemical and mineral composition.