Effects of conditioning on HMF content in unifloral honeys

HMF (5-hydroxymethylfurfural) is considered an important quality parameter for honey and maximum values are fixed by the European Directive no.110 (2001). In this paper, the HMF levels during the heating process of four unifloral Sicilian honeys (Orange. Eucalyptus. Sully. Chestnut) were determined; the kinetics of HMF formation were also investigated. The HMF formation was correlated with chemical characteristics (pH, free acids, total acidity and lactones) of the different honeys. The data obtained were statistically elaborated. The results indicate non-equivalence among different honey types with regard to the heating treatment and the importance of reviewing the directive. Thus, the present standards for honey HMF content seem too large in some cases (Chestnut honey) and too restrictive in others (Citrus honey). (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.