Melissopalynological and Physicochemical Analysis of Honey Samples from Ekiti, Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Background and Objective:The lack of adequate information on parameters that characterize locally produced and marketed honey brands is a problem that needs to be addressed. This is particularly important in providing insight into the quality and commercial value of honey. Materials and Methods: To achieve this aim, honey samples were collected from four apiaries in Ekiti State, Southwestern Nigeria. Standard routine palynological procedures (pollen analysis-acetolysis and microscopy) were adopted for the quantification and qualification of pollen types while the AOAC methods were used for the determination of physico-chemical parameters. Results: Honey was from unifloral and bifloral sources. Total pollen count (in 10 µL) ranged from 57 to 1453. Twenty-two palynomorph types (21 pollen and 1 spore) from 15 families were recovered. Frequently encountered pollen types included Elaeis guineensis, Blighia sapida, Oldenlandia corymbosa, Talinum triangulare,