Chemical characteristic of selected imported and local honey sold around Kano metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

In this study, analysis of nine samples of imported honey from Argentina, Italy and Turkey and local honey sourced from Kaduna, Adamawa, Zaria, Jigawa, Bauchi and Hadejia were incorporated in the study. The concentration of reducing sugars, sucrose, free fatty acid, pH, moisture and ash content were determined using standard methods. The imported honey had the highest reducing sugar and ash content. The reducing sugar content follows the order A>B> C. While, the local honey samples had high free fatty acid and moisture. The free fatty acid is in the order I> G> E> D≥ F> H. The pH and sucrose of all samples are within the national regulations. Reducing sugar (≥ 65%), sucrose (≤ 5%), free fatty acid (≤ 40meq/kg), moisture (≤21%), ash (≤1.0%) and pH (3.2- 4.5). These results indicate that imported honey fall within the Codex Standard regulations in most cases. It has been discovered that some substances in honey prevent colon cancer in animals by shutting down activity of two enzymes, phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase and lipoxygenase. Other phytonutrients found in honey have been shown to possess cancer-preventing and anti-tumor properties. Honey is the ideal liver fuel because it contains a nearly 1:1 ratio of fructose to glucose. Fructose "unlocks" the enzyme from the liver cell's nucleus that is necessary for the incorporation of glucose into glycogen (the form in which sugar is stored in the liver and muscle cells). Honey may promote better blood sugar control. Proper fueling of the liver is central to optimal glucose metabolism during sleep and exercise.

Keywords: Chemical, Honey, Reducing sugar, Sucrose.