Pollen analysis and heavy metals detection in honey samples from southern Nigeria
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Date
2019
Authors
Adekanmbi, O.H.
Walter, O.J.
Ikegbunam, N.C.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
World News of Natural Sciences Scientific Publishing House „DARWIN”
Abstract
Pollen analytical study of two locally produced honey samples collected from Akwa Ibom and
Cross River State, Southern Nigeria were carried out in order to ascertain the preferentially foraged
plants by honey bees, as well as the concentration of heavy metals. Samples were subjected to standard
laboratory procedures using an acetolysis mixture (pollen analysis) and atomic absorption spectrometry
(heavy metals). The results from the analysis revealed 32 taxa belonging to 17 botanical families. The
number of pollen grains in the honey samples varied significantly (between 4,887 - 12,755 pollen
grains), indicating their richness in pollen grains. 12 elements - Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, Br, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn,
Rb, and Fe were detected. Potassium had the highest concentration, followed by iron, calcium, titanium,
zinc, copper, chromium, nickel, among others. What is more, in this study, some important honey plants:
Spondias mombin, Daniella oliveri, Manihot esculenta, Treculia africana, Syzigium guineensis,
Diospyros mespiliformis, Parkia biglobosa, Terminalia superba, Senna hirsuta, among others were
found to be predominant and have been identified to be characteristic of the vegetation typical of
Southern Nigeria. With regard to honey, this study gives an indication of the geographical and botanical
origins, as well as types, source, and degree of contamination, and also an overall measure of honey
purity. Such information, when displayed, can help consumers make informed decision when purchasing
honey and will also help beekeepers to avoid possible contamination. Moreover, it will assist regulatory
agencies in taking proper measures for environmental and consumer protection, since the concentration
of heavy metals in honey is influenced by environmental pollution.
Description
Keywords
Honey , Pollen , Heavy metals , Spondias mombin , Daniella oliveri , Manihot esculenta , Treculia africana , Parkia biglobosa , Diospyros mespiliformis , Terminalia superba , Senna hirsuta
Citation
Adekanmbi, O. H., Walter, O. J., & Ikegbunam, N. C. (2019). Pollen analysis and heavy metals detection in honey samples from southern Nigeria. World News of Natural Sciences, 26, 176-190.