Comparative analysis of bioactive compounds and physicochemical properties of honeys from Thai local community producer, commercial producers and imported honeys

This study comparatively analyzed 14 honey samples (Thai local, commercial, and imported) for physicochemical properties, sugar composition, and antioxidant activities. Key parameters included total phenolic and flavonoid content, DPPH inhibition, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), sugar content, pH, color and moisture content. PCA categorized samples based on sugar content (F1, 49.66%) and bioactive compounds and radical scavenging activity (F2, 38.56%), together explaining 88.22% of variance. Hin Lad Nai stingless bee honey (HLN-SB), a sample from local community in northern Thailand, was a unique outlier with exceptionally low glucose/fructose. Conversely, Hin Lad Nai honeybee honey (HLN-HB) displayed high phenolic/flavonoid content and strong radical scavenging activity, comparable to high-quality raw imported honeys. These results highlight the biochemical richness and high functional quality of naturally harvested Thai local honeys and underscore their potential as value-added, antioxidant-rich products.