Physicochemical and Antioxidant Properties of Selected Polish and Slovak Honeys

In this study, the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of 19 honey samples from Poland and Slovakia were assessed and models describing the relationship between antioxidant activity and the determined physicochemical features were developed. All tested honeys met the regulatory criteria of EU standards for the content of water, hydroxymethylfurfural, and diastase activity. Honey samples from Poland and Slovakia had similar glucose-to-fructose ratios, but differences were observed in diastase activity, electrical conductivity, and antioxidant potential. Polish forest honey samples showed the highest antioxidant activity, and Polish rapeseed honey showed higher antioxidant potential than the Slovak honey. Color analysis showed a strong correlation (R2 = 0.849) between the browning index and antioxidant capacity. Cluster analysis effectively distinguished honey types based on their chemical composition, although some sample overlap was attributed to environmental influences. Regression models identified key predictors of antioxidant potential, and polyphenol content evidenced by color parameters (a*, b*). This study provides valuable information on honey characteristics and demonstrates the feasibility of using statistical models to predict antioxidant properties.