Distinctive mineral and physicochemical parameters assessment of carob honey (Mallorca Island) from Spanish honeys exploiting dimensionality reduction tools and cluster analysis

This study applied dimensionality reduction tools, including Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection (UMAP) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and cluster analysis to explore and classify the physicochemical parameters and mineral content of 65 Spanish honeys, focusing on carob honey (Ceratonia siliqua) from Mallorca, Spain. A simple and reliable digestion method for elemental determination has been developed using ICP-OES. The concentration of macro and trace elements was determined together with several physicochemical parameters, i.e., pH, lactone, free and total acidity, water activity, moisture, conductivity, and ash content. The results highlight the significant mineral richness and high conductivity of carob honey, suggesting potential health benefits and nutritional value. Elevated moisture content and water activity were identified in a significant proportion of Spanish samples, indicating a risk of spoilage and crystallization. The study underscored the distinctive mineral profile of carob honey and the importance of region-specific considerations and quality parameters in honey analysis.