Assessing quality attributes of autumn honey produced in Upper Egypt

The current study, carried out during the autumn honey flow season in September 2023, aimed to evaluate the distinct quality characteristics of autumn honey produced in three governorates (Sohag, Qena and Luxor) of Upper Egypt. Pollen spectrum and physicochemical properties were the parameters assessed for each honey sample as they are instrumental in discerning the botanical origin and quality of honey. Pollen analysis of the honey revealed distinct variability among samples, reflecting their diverse geographical origins. Luxor and Qena honey samples were classified as unifloral whereas, those from Sohag were multifloral. Physicochemical analysis demonstrated that key parameters_including electrical conductivity, granulation, viscosity, moisture content, pH, acidity profile, sugar composition (fructose, glucose, sucrose & maltose), hydroxymethyl furfural levels, and diastase activity aligned well with most international standards confirming the overall good quality of samples. Notably, samples from Qena governorate recorded the highest Electrical conductivity (0.7mS/cm) and granulation index (0.93) while the highest viscosity (148.00 poise) was observed in honey from Luxor. Sohag samples exhibited the highest total acidity (37.5 meq/Kg). Across all samples sucrose content remained below the accepted 5%threshold. Diastase activity peaked in Sohag samples (62.50 Gothe unit), while those from Qena had the highest HMF contents (7.16 mg/kg). The findings of this research highlighted that the variations in honey quality and physicochemical attributes across the three governorates depending on both geographical and botanical origins.