An exceptionally high content of kynurenic acid in chestnut honey and flowers of chestnut tree

• Content of kynurenic acid in chestnut honey is exceptionally high.
• Kynurenic acid content in chestnut tree male flower is higher than in female one.
• Chestnut honey can be an important source of dietary kynurenic acid.

Kynurenic acid (KYNA) is a metabolite of tryptophan exerting a number of positive actions in rodents, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activity. In this study, an analysis of KYNA concentration in a number of honeys, including chestnut honey, as well as chestnut tree parts and products made from chestnuts, was performed. It was found that the content of KYNA in chestnut honey is exceptionally high, in comparison both with other types of honey investigated and with selected chestnut products, such as peeled fruit, crème, puree and flour. It was also detected that the content of KYNA in chestnut tree male flower is several times higher than in female flower. Our results indicate that chestnut honey, which is predominantly produced in Mediterranean countries, contains very high amounts of KYNA and can be an important source of dietary KYNA.