Determination of antibiotic residues in imported and locally produced honey in Kosovo

Antibiotic residues in food products pose significant health risks to consumers. Among the hazardous antibiotics, chloramphenicol and tetracycline are of particular concern. To assess the potential public health risks associated with the presence of these residues in honey, an evaluation is necessary. Our study examined honey samples from six key regions of Kosovo: Prizren, Pejë, Gjakovë, Mitrovica, and Gjilan. A total of 200 honey samples were qualitatively analyzed using enzyme-linked receptor assays (I'screen TECNA, Italy). Among these, 99 samples (49.5 %) contained tetracycline at concentrations ranging from 3.8 to 15.8 µg/kg, while 101 samples (50.5 %) had levels below the detection limit (<3.75 µg/kg). No traces of chloramphenicol were detected in any of the samples. Our findings indicate the presence of tetracycline residues in honey, underscoring the need for immediate action. We urge relevant institutions to consider these results and implement awareness programs to educate farmers on the risks associated with excessive antibiotic use.