EVALUATION OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AND ANALYSIS OF MAIN COMPONENT FROM POLIFLORAL HONEY PRODUCED AND MARKETED IN THE STATE OF RIO DE JANEIRO, BRASIL

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical parameters of polifloral honey marketed in Rio de Janeiro. In the period
of 2007 and 2008 were analyzed, through official methods, 24 samples. The analysis of main component was performed
to improve results obtained in the physicochemical characterization. The results revealed that 12 samples (50 %) were
in agreement with Brazilian legislation, 10 samples (42 %) were reproved in one parameter; and 2 samples (8 %) were
reproved in two or more quality parameters. The component analysis revealed that three principal components described
84,8 % of total variance of data. Also, 75 % of physicochemical parameters were adequately represented by the three
principal components. However, no efficient grouping of samples was observed, by using parameters as origin and shelflife
time, due to heterogeneous behavior of physicochemical parameters of polifloral honeys. Therefore, the principal
component analysis did not allow a correct grouping of samples. Furthermore, physicochemical evaluation shows that
the quality control procedures must be improved in order to guarantee the safety of honeys produced and acquired in the
Rio de Janeiro markets