Honey Quality by native bees (Meliponini) in the San Martín Region, Peru

Abstract

Beekeeping has become an economic alternative for the inhabitants of rural communities in the San Martín region of Peru. This article aimed to evaluate the quality profile of honey samples from two native stingless bees produced in San Martín. In this study, the 2A x 2B factorial experiment was applied, considering two rural districts (Yantaló and San Roque de Cumbaza) and two species of native stingless bees (Melipona eburnea and Tetragonisca angustula). The analysis of reducing sugars was  carried  out  using  the  HPLC  method  and  the  soluble  solids  were  determined  by  means  of  a  table refractometer, while the sensory analysis was carried out considering the following attributes: color, humidity, intensity of aroma, aroma and aftertaste flavor. Regarding the sensory evaluation, honey samples from both species were accepted, although differences were identified. In San Roque de  Cumbaza,  M.  eburnea  honey  was  described  as  sweeter  and  in  Yantaló,  T.  angustula  honey  was  described as sweet and sour. In addition, in relation to the quality of the honey samples, the results show that the parameters established by current legislation for Apis mellifera are not adequate for some  variables  analyzed,  being  necessary  to  standardize  the  guidelines  for  honey  from  native  stingless bees in our country. country.