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Chemical and Functional Characteristics of Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo L.) Honey from Western Greece
Chrysoula Tananaki1, Dimitrios Kanelis1, Vasilios Liolios1
1Laboratory of Apiculture-Sericulture, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Aristotle Farm, 57001 Thermi, Greece.
Abstract:
Strawberry tree honey (Arbutus unedo L.) is a rare monofloral honey type with unique characteristics, mainly produced in the Mediterranean region. Despite its distinct qualities, limited research on its physicochemical and biological properties, coupled with the absence of specific legislative standards, hinder its market potential. For this reason, in the present study, we analyzed strawberry tree honey samples collected from beekeepers in Western Greece, focusing on physicochemical properties (moisture, electrical conductivity, HMF, diastase activity, color, pH, acidity), total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, carbohydrate composition, and phenolic compounds profile. The results revealed high moisture content (19.2 ± 1.9%) and electrical conductivity (0.784 ± 0.132 mS cm-1), low diastase activity (9.6 ± 3.8 DN), and a strong crystallization tendency (1.01). Additionally, the honey exhibited elevated levels of total phenolic content (1169.9 ± 323.8 mg GAE kg-1 honey) and total antioxidant activity (10.98 ± 2.42 mmol Fe2+ kg-1 honey), compared to other blossom honeys, with homogentisic acid emerging as the dominant phenolic compound. These findings highlight the potential of strawberry tree honey as a high-value product, contributing to its enhanced market promotion.
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Functional groups are group of atoms with specific chemical properties that occur within organic molecules and sometimes denoted as “R”. Functional groups are found along the carbon backbone of macromolecules can form chains or rings of carbon atoms. Functional groups can “functionalize” a compound by enabling it to adopt different physical and chemical properties.
Types of common functional groups
The table below summarizes some of the major functional...
Overview of Advanced Functional Groups
Functional groups are groups of atoms with specific chemical properties that occur within organic molecules and are sometimes denoted as “R”. Functional groups can “functionalize” a compound by enabling it to adopt different physical and chemical properties.
Types of Advanced Functional Groups
The table below summarizes some of the major functional groups in organic chemistry.
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