Natural Antioxidant Boosters for Honey: Effects of Portulaca oleracea and Salicornia perennans Powders and Extracts

Honey is a valuable carrier for phytochemicals, yet data on halophyte-based fortification remain scarce. This study evaluated the impact of Portulaca oleracea and Salicornia perennans, applied as powders 1.5–4.5% or ethanol extracts 1.2–1.8%, on the antioxidant and functional properties of rapeseed and multifloral honeys. Antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS), total phenolic (TPC), and flavonoid contents (TFC) increased significantly in a concentration-dependent manner, with powders consistently outperforming extracts. The strongest effects were obtained with 4.5% powders, yielding up to 77.83% DPPH, 99.11% ABTS, 14.85 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per 100 g TPC, and 44.15 mg QE/100 g TFC-values surpassing controls and synthetic standards. Colorimetric and oxidative stability assays confirmed that enriched honeys exhibited slower browning and reduced peroxide/TBARS accumulation during storage. Sensory analysis further indicated improved color, aroma, taste, and overall acceptability. Between species, Salicornia showed slightly stronger effects than Portulaca, while multifloral honey provided greater synergy than rapeseed. These results demonstrate that halophyte powders are effective natural enhancers of honey’s antioxidant, technological, and sensory qualities, supporting their use in functional food development.