Characterization of unifloral honeys [melissopalynology]

The characterization of 14 types of Italian unifloral honeys was carried out on the basis of the organoleptic, microscopic (qualitative and quantitative melissopalynological analysis) and physicochemical properties (colour, moisture, ash, HMF, diastase, pH, total acidity, electrical conductivity, specific rotation and sugars). The botanical origins of the examined honeys were Arbutus unedo L, Castanea sativa Mill, Citrus spp, Erica arborea L, Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh, Hedysarum coronarium L, Helianthus annuus L, Rhododendron spp, Robinia pseudoacacia L, Taraxacum officinale Web, Thymus capitatus Hofmgg et LK, Tila spp, honeydew honey from Abies and honey from Metcalfa pruinosa honeydew. The synoptic picture emerging from the results can be used as a reference framework for the diagnosis of unifloral honeys.