Characterization of Saudi Arabian floral honeys by their physicochemical characteristics and heavy metal contents

The quality of floral honey produced in Saudi Arabia was evaluated. All samples were analyzed for common physicochemical parameters like moisture contents, acidity, ash, pH, conductivity and heavy metal contents. All samples showed proper maturity, considering the low moisture percentage. The total acidity, below 50 meq/kg, in all the samples indicated the absence of undesirable fermentation. Also, the mean pH around 4.0, is usual for floral honeys. The value for ash and conductivity (0.33% and 402μS/cm) were within the European Community Standards. Among heavy metals, Fe and Zn were detected in all samples, with the mean levels of 2.65μg/g and 0.77μg/g. Nickel was detected only in 20% of samples analyzed. The heavy metal contents of Saudi Arabian floral honey were either comparable or lesser than internationally reported values. Therefore, these can be regarded as safe for human consumption.