Characterization of Axestotrigona ferruginea and Apis mellifera honeys from different geographical origins

The properties and composition of honey are influenced by the bee species, as well as geographical and floral origin. Although Africa hosts diverse bee species and landscapes, data on the compositional profiles of the honey types produced in this region remains scant. This study examined the physicochemical properties and antioxidant potential of honey produced by the honey bee, Apis mellifera, and Axestotrigona ferruginea, a stingless bee species native to the African tropics. Multivariate analyses were utilized to classify the honey samples based on the assayed parameters. Significant differences were observed in water content, pH, free acidity, electrical conductivity, invertase activity, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and sugar levels (p < 0.05). Notably, A. ferruginea honey exhibited higher total phenolic and flavonoid content, ascorbic acid, free radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power, indicating greater antioxidant potential compared to A. mellifera honey. The honey samples were effectively classified according to bee species, while distinctions based on geographical origin were limited. These findings contribute to the knowledge of honey produced by both honey bees and stingless bees in African environments.