Determination of Polyphenolic Compounds in Honey Samples of Different Botanical Origin

A study was conducted on the quantitative determination of biologically active components of Ukrainian honey, in particular polyphenols and flavonoids, which are responsible for its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Thirteen honey samples harvested in 2023–2024 from different regions of Ukraine were analyzed, including monofloral (sunflower, linden, rapeseed, black locust), polyfloral (wildflower), and blended varieties. The primary method for quantitative analysis of total polyphenol content was the Folin–Ciocalteu colorimetric assay (measured at 750 nm), while flavonoid determination was carried out using a photometric reaction with AlCl3 in an alkaline medium (measured at 510 nm). The total phenolic content in the domestic samples was found to range from 108 to 770 mg GAE/kg. The highest values were characteristic of wildflower honey, while the lowest values were recorded in acacia and linden honeys. No direct correlation was found between polyphenol content and botanical origin for monofloral and polyfloral varieties. The flavonoid content in the studied samples ranged from 3 to 28 mg/kg. For rapid approximate estimation of total polyphenol content, spectrophotometric an insufficiently strong correlation with total polyphenol content due to possible interference from nonphenolic components, and therefore it is not recommended for express analysis. In contrast, a strong correlation was found between optical density at 450 nm (A450) and flavonoid content, which allows this parameter to be used for rapid assessment of the antioxidant potential of honey. The obtained data underscore the high competitiveness of Ukrainian honey on the international market.