Analysis of Volatiles from Spanish Honeys by Solid-Phase Microextraction and Gas Chromatography−Mass Spectrometry

Abstract

Headspace solid-phase microextraction (SPME), followed by gas chromatography (GC)-mass spectrometry (MS) determination, has been used for the analysis of honey volatiles. Two SPME fibers were employed to study the composition of volatiles from various types of Spanish honeys. The best results were obtained with the Carboxen/PDMS fiber, using a homogenization time of 1 h at 70 degrees C and a sampling period of 30 min. A total of 35 compounds were detected, most of them identified by GC-MS and quantified using external standards. Differences in the composition of honey volatiles were obtained, and these results allowed the differentiation of honeys. However, further studies are necessary to confirm the utility of this technique as an alternative tool for the characterization of the floral origin of honeys.

Physico-chemical methods for the characterisation of unifloral honeys: a review

“…In another work Carboxen/PDMS and PDMS/DVB coated fibers were used (Perez et al, 2002). The first fibre was shown to be able to extract more highly volatile compounds.…”

Headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-quadrupole mass spectrometric methodology for the establishment of the volatile composition of Passiflora fruit species

“…The interest of researchers and producers by these species has been stimulated due to their good nutritional characteristics for industrialization since it presents a fresh pulp, soft peel, high sugar content and strong exotic flavor [3]. Because passion fruits are often inexpensive and extremely rich in vitamins, their popularity has increased, especially in Europe and in United States [3,4]. Volatiles directly affect the sensorial quality of fresh and processed fruit products, in which aroma is formed by a complex group of chemical substances (e.g., aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, esters, lactones, terpenes).…”

Screening of volatile composition from Portuguese multifloral honeys using headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography–quadrupole mass spectrometry

“…Honey, as a source of antioxidants has been proven to be effective against deterioative monoterpenes, C 13 -norisoprenoids, sesquiterpenoids, benzene derivatives [5] and in lowest content, higher alcohols, esters, fatty acids, ketones, terpenes and aldehydes. Some of these substances are present in honey collected by bees, and have been described as characteristics of the floral source (could be related to plant characteristics), and other compounds, like some alcohols, branched aldehydes, and furfural derivatives, may be related to the microbial purity of processing and storage conditions of honey [6]. The quantitative analysis of volatile compounds present in such samples is extremely demanding due: (1) to complex chemical composition of the volatile fraction and (2) the fact of individual volatile compounds can be present in a wide range of concentration.…”