Botanical Origin of Honey: Implications for Mineral Composition and Potential Toxic Element Safety.

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the relationships between botanical origins, physicochemical properties, and the mineral composition of honey, as well as to determine its potentially toxic element content. It also sought to investigate whether the types and amounts of these elements have any long-term adverse effects on human health. The results of the melissopalynological analysis indicated that the pollen grains most frequently identified in honey samples belonged to the families Fabaceae, Asteraceae, and Lamiaceae. In addition, unifloral honey samples were found to be derived from Castanea sativa, Paliurus spina-christi, Citrus sp., and Erica sp., while the other samples were classified as polyfloral. Color values (L*, a*, and b*), electrical conductivity, and ash content showed variations according to the botanical sources. Polyfloral honeys exhibited higher levels of K, Mg, Al, Mn than unifloral honeys, highlighting their diverse plant origins. Nutritional and safety assessments, including EDI, THQ, and SHI values, confirmed that all honey samples were within safe limits when consumed 20 g for adults (men and women), 10 g for children daily, for potentially toxic elements, ensuring their safety for consumption.