Justification of specific indicators as criteria for assessing the monoflorality of buckwheat honey

Abstract

Goal. To determine the criteria for assessing monofloral honey from buckwheat based on the analysis of its organoleptic and physicochemical indicators, as well as optimal methods of establishing compliance with the requirements of quality standards. Methods. The analysis of organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics was carried out following DSTU 4497:2005 “Natural honey. Specifications”. Melisopalynological analysis was performed by the Louveaux method, and the ratio of fructose to glucose was determined using the DGglucose/DFructose-UV method test system (r-Biopharm). Results. 40 samples of honey labeled as buckwheat honey were analyzed. The main evaluation criteria of monofloral buckwheat honey, recommended for use in Ukraine, were formulated. The monofloral nature of honey was determined by the content of the pollen of the main honey-bearing plant in it. Buckwheat honey was considered monofloral if the content of buckwheat pollen was at least 30%. Organoleptic indicators of such honey: specific taste, peculiar, rather pleasant aroma, change of color from dark yellow to dark brown, and short period of crystallization. As for the physicochemical properties, high-quality monofloral buckwheat honey had a moisture content of 16,820.5%, contained 359.9 ± 43.1 mg/kg of proline, its electrical conductivity was 0.4 ± 0.006 mS/cm, the ratio of fructose to glucose — not lower than 0.7, the content of reducing sugars — 84.0±0.4%, sucrose — 2.75.3%, diastase — in the range from 30.6 to 51.2 Gote units. Conclusions. A complex approach to the assessment of monofloral buckwheat honey was developed, which made it possible to determine its peculiarity based on organoleptic properties, specific physicochemical indicators, and indicators of naturalness.