Analysis of minority honey components: Possible use for the evaluation of honey quality

The minerals (Al, B, Ca, Cu, Mg, Mn, Ni, Zn) of 24 authentic Czech nectar and honeydew honey samples (2003 and 2004 harvests) were determined, to find the relationship between their content and the origin or type of honey. The concentrations of analytes in the digests, obtained via optimised dry decomposition of honey samples, were measured by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (F-AAS), as well as optical emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-OES). With regard to its speed of analysis and cost, ICP-OES was the more favourable method. By combining the analytical data and electrolytic conductivities of samples, the honey samples could be divided into two groups – honeydew honeys and nectar honeys. Like Slovak and Polish honeys, samples of Czech honeys had higher nickel levels than honeys originating from other parts of the world.