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Physicochemical Integrity and Sensory Profiling of Algerian Honeys: Insights into Floral Diversity and Consumer Perception
1 , * 1 , 1, 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 5 , 5
1  Department of Chemistry. Faculty of Sciences. Abou Bekr Belkaïd University. P.O. Box 119. Tlemcen 13000. Algeria;
2  Laboratory of Application of Electrolytes and Organic Poly-electrolytes (LCPO). Abou Bekr Belkaïd University. P.O. Box 119. Tlemcen 13000. Algeria
3  Department of Tourism and Recreation, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 15 Akademicka Str.,20-950 Lublin, Poland
4  Department of Biochemistry and Food Chemistry. University of Life Sciences in Lublin. Skromna 8. 20-704 Lublin. Poland
5  Department of Analysis and Evaluation of Food Quality. University of Life Sciences in Lublin. 8 Skromna Street. 20-704 Lublin. Poland.
Academic Editor: Julio A. Seijas

https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsoc-29-26865 (registering DOI)
Abstract:

This study presents a preliminary characterisation of 37 honey samples from western Algeria, encompassing a wide range of botanical origins such as lavender, rosemary, thyme, euphorbia, eucalyptus, sage, and multifloral varieties. A series of quality-related physicochemical parameters were determined, including moisture, pH, free acidity, electrical conductivity, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), proline, sugar profile (glucose, fructose, sucrose), optical rotation, and chromatic attributes (L*, a*, b*, chroma, and hue angle). All measured values complied with established European regulations, indicating overall product conformity. Notably, proline and HMF contents served as useful indicators of freshness and botanical authenticity. Colour variation among samples further reflected floral diversity. To assess consumer-relevant features, a sensory comparison was carried out between the Algerian honeys and four well-characterised Polish references. A dual sensory protocol was applied, combining a five-point hedonic test (evaluating taste, aroma, and colour preferences) and a Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) questionnaire using eleven sensory descriptors. While Polish honeys generally scored higher in hedonic ratings for taste and aroma, several Algerian samples displayed comparable consumer acceptance, particularly those derived from rosemary and multifloral sources. Multivariate analysis (PCA and hierarchical clustering) revealed three distinct sensory clusters, demonstrating the richness and differentiation of Algerian profiles. These findings highlight the promising positioning of Algerian honeys on international markets and support their inclusion in future food quality and labelling initiatives.

Keywords: Algerian honey; floral origin; physicochemical analysis; sensory evaluation; consumer perception.
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