We found a match
Your institution may have access to this item. Find your institution then sign in to continue.
- Title
The Presence of Synthetic and Adulterated Honeys in Malaysia.
- Authors
Yusoff, Kamaruddin Mohd; Hamid, Joesima; Manap, Mohd Nuruddin Abd
- Abstract
BACKGROUND The subject of honey purity is gaining public attention in Malaysia. In fact, the first question asked by any buyer of honey is: is this honey sample pure? The presence of synthetic and adulterated honeys is on the increase. This study was conducted to screen some honeys available in Malaysia to ascertain their purity. Only samples claimed to be of Malaysian origin were analysed in this study. METHODS 40 samples were analysed for their reducing sugar (fructose, glucose, maltose and turanose), nonreducing sugar (sucrose) and hydroxymethylfurfuraldehyde (HMF) contents. Methods of analysis were based on those recommended by International Honey Commission (IHC) and Department of Standards Malaysia, with a minor modification. RESULTS Nine samples gave results conforming to international accepted values indicating pure honey. Thirty one samples showed values indicating that they were either synthetic or adulterated honeys. Synthetic honeys were made by acid treatment of sugar solutions which leads to the formation of a byproduct, hydroxymethylfurfuraldehyde (HMF) in large quantity (more than 200 mg/Kg whereas values not exceeding 80mg/Kg is allowed in honeys from tropical countries). Adulterated honeys were on the other hand, produced by mixing certain portions of pure honey with sugar solution (cane sugar). CONCLUSION Our findings clearly indicate that only 23 % of honey sold in Malaysia is pure. obscure.
- Subjects
MALAYSIA; HONEY; SUGAR; FURANS; ACIDS
- Publication
Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences, 2007, Vol 14, Issue 1, p123
- ISSN
1394-195X
- Publication type
Article