Detection and degradation of bisphenols in honey using matrix-induced dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction: Insights into the release of bisphenol A from polycarbonate microplastics

Abstract

The protection of the pollinator honeybee is of significant importance to the maintenance of the ecosystem. In recent years, the contamination of bisphenols (BPs) and microplastics (MPs) has prompted global concern. Nevertheless, the degradation of BPs in honey and the release of BPs from MPs in honey remain unknown. Herein, a novel matrix-induced dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (MI-DLLME) method coupled with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-fluorescence detection was developed for quantifying BPA and BPB in honey. This approach leverages endogenous honey matrix constituents to facilitate microextraction, offering a robust and efficient analytical strategy. The method was rigorously validated and applied in a survey of 67 honey samples, revealing that only BPA was detectable, with raw apiary honey exhibiting significantly lower contamination levels and detection frequency than commercial honey. Furthermore, the degradation kinetics of BPA and BPB were investigated in four botanical honey types, showing slow degradation rates (0.00344–0.00647 day^-1) and half-lives ranging from 107 to 201 days. Additionally, the gradual release of BPA from polycarbonate (PC) MPs was observed in honey, with higher water content accelerating the release rate. These findings underscore the need for continued monitoring of BP contamination in honeybee products to safeguard both pollinator health and human consumers.