EVALUATION OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL, ANTIOXIDANT AND ATR-FTIR PROFILES OF SELECTED APIS CERANA HONEYS FROM BODOLAND TERRITORIAL REGION, NORTHEASTERN INDIA

Abstract

Background: Apis cerana is a distinct pollinator species that holds a crucial role in ecosystem management. It is known for facilitating the reproduction of various flowering plants and producing rich-flavoured honey. Objective: To study the biochemical composition, antioxidant properties and spectral fingerprints of three locally sourced A. cerana honey varieties: Mustard, Buckwheat and Multifloral, collected from the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), Northeastern India. Methodology: Exploratory characterization of the honey samples was performed using standard biochemical assays and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy technique. Results: The analyzed honey samples had low pH levels, indicating a moderately acidic nature. Buckwheat honey exhibited the highest moisture (15.54 ± 0.49 %), protein (1.39 ± 0.27 g/100g), TPC (446.66 ± 1.33 mg GAE/100g), TFC (40.20 ± 0.06 mg QE/ 100g) and RSA (78.82 ± 0.35 %). FTIR spectra demonstrated prominent peaks associated with water, carbohydrates, phenolics, organic acids and lipids in honey samples. Conclusion: Results indicate that the biochemical, antioxidant and spectroscopic features of honey samples varied based on their floral origin. Buckwheat honey displayed a relatively higher antioxidant activity with lower sugar concentration. The findings provide insights to support honey authentication and advancement in apiculture practices.