Bioactive compounds by UHPLC-MS/MS and physicochemical characterization of Melipona quadrifasciata honey

The characterization of honey from native bees provides insights into its complex chemical composition, which is rich in bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic properties. This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics of honey from Melipona quadrifasciata over12 months, as well as identified, through UHPLC-ESI–MS/MS, the presence of bioactive compounds and how these variations are influenced by seasonal and environmental conditions. Results demonstrated the presence of phenolic acids, terpenes, and flavonoids throughout the year, were identified naringenin, kaempferol, sakuranetin, and pinocembrin. Compounds like kaempferol were present only during the warmer months, while afzelin and jaceosidin were identified in all months, with only variations in their relative percentage observed in the samples. The physicochemical analyses showed stable values for Brix and moisture, with moderate variations in total acidity and low concentrations of 5-HMF. These findings underscore the importance of seasonality and environmental conditions in determining the composition and properties of stingless bee honey, emphasizing its potential as a distinctive product.