Quality Assessment and Nutraceutical Potential of a Traditionally Harvested Honeydew Honey from the Wild in Ghana

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this research was to ascertain the quality of the honeydew honey harvested with wood smoke. Methodology: The sample was stored in a container underlined with aluminium foil and then covered with a cork and kept for subsequent analyses. The sample was analyzed for its qualities like phytochemical properties, antiradical activity, physicochemical properties, antibacterial potency, heavy metal composition and pesticide residue content. Results: The total phenolic and total flavonoid contents and antioxidant potential were comparatively higher than most honeys reported from other countries. The different concentrations of honey exhibited varying levels of antibacterial activity against the three different pathogenic indicator strains (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium and Staphylococcus aureus). The inhibition of bactericidal activity was reduced with reduction in the honey concentration. The physicochemical parameters and pesticide residue studied were within the acceptable limit. Some heavy metals were present in the honey, but were within the permissible safe limits of Codex Alimentarius Commission and FAO/WHO. However, Cadmium, Manganese and Nickel levels were above the safe limit. Conclusion: The inhibition of bacterial growth indicates the honey’s health benefits in fighting bacterial infections. Generally, the honeydew honey harvested with wood smoke honey exhibited medicinal/nutraceutical properties.