Avaliação do mel para verificação de impurezas e substâncias estranhas

Abstract

Honey is a nutritious substance produced by bees (Apis mellifera L.), with a high sugar content and other beneficial components to human health. Due to various factors in the extraction and preparation processes, honey can contain different substances. This study aims to classify foreign bodies present in five honey samples obtained from the Campos Gerais region of Paraná, with four samples of industrial origin and one artisanal sample. Analyses were conducted using electron microscopy, moisture content, acidity, and ash content, as these collectively help to better understand the reasons and mechanisms behind the results. The experimental design was entirely focused on understanding whether <Boas Práticas Apícolas (BPA)= were followed. In the acidity evaluations, all samples complied with the parameters established by Brazilian legislation. Regarding moisture content analyses, two samples exceeded the established limits, which could potentially result in increased microorganism proliferation and changes in sensory characteristics such as aroma and flavor. Concerning the determination of the total mineral content, only the sample from the fair was found to be non-compliant with the regulations stipulated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Supply. Foreign elements, such as pollen, plant and tissue fibers, insect fragments, and possible microplastics, were detected in all analyzed samples. It is noteworthy that some analyses were conducted in triplicate to obtain more precise and consistent results.