Stingless Bee Honey: An Integrative Review on Its Physicochemical Characterization

2. Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Brazil

Abstract: Meliponiculture is widespread in all regions of Brazil since the biodiversity of the Brazilian flora makes it possible to obtain honey from different blooms, during all months of the year, with unique colors, aromas, and flavors. The aim of this study is to present the physical-chemical characteristics of honey produced by native bees and evaluate its quality as a commercial product. The research is descriptive and quantitative in nature, using a narrative literature review to examine the physical-chemical characteristics and quality of honey from native bees. The literature review revealed that the average humidity was 23.2%, while the free acidity and ash content ranged from 71.68-81.01 mEq kg-1 and 0.9-1.41%, respectively. The research concludes that utilizing honey produced by native bees in studies can bolster rural development and enhance the quality of honey generated by family producers. Additionally, it can aid public officials in devising policies aimed at augmenting the production of stingless bee honey in the country.