SEASONAL VARIATION IN THE PHYSICO-CHEMICAL QUALITY OF HONEY PRODUCED BY APIS DORSATA IN TEHSIL PATTOKI, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN

Abstract

The present study evaluated the seasonal variation in the physico-chemical quality and sugar composition of Apis dorsata’s honey across different seasons collected from Tehsil Pattoki, Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 30 honey samples were collected from active hives during winter, spring, and summer seasons, with ten samples collected per season from 10 different hives. The results revealed significant seasonal variations in several quality parameters of honey. Moisture content was significantly higher during spring (9.15 ± 0.03%) and winter (9.14 ± 0.02%) as compared to summer (6.15 ± 0.01%). In contrast, carbohydrate content recorded highest during summer (82.79 ± 0.13%), while lower values were recorded during winter (79.69 ± 0.05%) and spring (79.72 ± 0.03%). Similarly, the energy value was significantly higher in summer honey (363 ± 0.26 kcal/g) than in winter (351.03 ± 0.18 kcal/g) and spring (351.19 ± 0.20 kcal/g). The pH values remained relatively stable throughout the seasons, ranging from 4.16 ± 0.01 to 4.22 ± 0.02. Protein content varied slightly between 6.09 ± 0.04% and 6.15 ± 0.02%, whereas fat, fiber, and ash contents showed no significant seasonal differences. Among sugars, fructose concentration was highest during summer (30.59 ± 0.09 g/100 g), followed by spring (27.49 ± 0.11 g/100 g) and winter (26.50 ± 0.10 g/100 g). Glucose content peaked during winter (24.32 ± 0.18 g/100 g), while sucrose was highest in spring (2.12 ± 0.06 g/100 g). Maltose content remained comparatively constant across all seasons. These findings revealed that seasonal floral availability and environmental conditions significantly influence the nutritional quality and sugar profile of Apis dorsata’s honey. Future studies should focus on detailed melissopalynological analysis to identify the specific floral sources contributing to seasonal changes in honey composition. Furthermore, evaluating antioxidant activity, phenolic compounds, enzyme activity, mineral profile, and antimicrobial properties is recommended to better understand the therapeutic potential of Apis dorsata honey. Long-term monitoring of climatic factors and habitat changes should be conducted to evaluate their effects on honey quality and bee ecology. Additionally, sustainable and non-destructive honey harvesting techniques should be explored to support conservation of wild bee populations and maintain ecological balance.