A preliminary analysis of the protein quality of bee pollen for human intake

Bee pollen is characterized by a high protein content; however, a comprehensive evaluation of protein quality is required to fully understand its nutritional value and potential benefits for consumers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional value of bee pollen harvested in the state of Yucatán, Mexico, using standardized equations to measure the protein quality of foods. Crude protein content and amino acid profile were determined, and the proportion of essential amino acids, chemical score, limiting amino acid, protein efficiency ratio, and estimated biological value were calculated. The results showed a crude protein content of 197.4 ± 2.5 g∙kg-1, with a proportion of essential amino acids around 50 %, with tryptophan as the only limiting amino acid. The calculated protein efficiency ratio was higher than 3, and the biological value was 25.76. These findings indicate the potential nutritional value of Yucatan bee pollen as a source of dietary protein. However, since protein quality was estimated from amino acid composition, the reported values should be interpreted as predictive indicators and may vary according to floral origin, season, and harvest conditions.