Physicochemical, Biochemical, and Chemometric Characterization of Oak Honey (Quercus spp.) From Kırklareli, Türkiye

Oak honey (Quercus spp.) is dark-colored honeydew and forest honey species with a high biological active capacity. This study investigated the chemical composition and antioxidant properties of oak honey produced in a limited area (Kırklareli) in 2023. The physicochemical properties were typical for honeydew honey and were within the limits specified by the relevant legislation. The specific optical rotation (SOR) values were positive, and the average conductivity was 0.97 ± 0.13 mS/cm. The average Hunter color L*a*b* values were 42.96 ± 9.39, 34.39 ± 3.17, and 70.81 ± 13.66, respectively, and the honey samples were dark in color. The total fructose + glucose content ranged from 56.52 to 75.97 g/100 g, with a mean value of 66.80 ± 6.20 g/100 g. The mean total phenolic and flavonoid content values were 48.74 ± 11.19 mg GAE/100 g and 5.25 ± 2.31 mg QUE/100 g, respectively. The major phenolic substances were ellagic acid and protocatechuic acid. Eight minerals were determined, K, Na, Mg, and Ca being the most abundant. The results showed that oak honey is rich in phenolic compounds and contains high levels of antioxidants and nutritional minerals. The high ellagic acid and potassium content in the region's oak honey can be important markers.