Pollen Spectrum and Biochemical Analysis of Dominant Pollen Types Represented by Local Honey Samples

A pollen spectrum of honey provides a basis for identifying the origin of a honey in terms of locality and floral resources. This information may be used to develop analytical standards for pollen, contributing to quality control of a honey. Qualitative and quantitative biochemical analysis of pollen grains of fifteen plant species was undertaken during the year 2006-2014. The dominant pollen types were Brassica campestris, Moringa oleifera, Syzygium cumini, Coriandrum sativum, and Helianthus annuus. The pollen samples were biochemically investigated for carbohydrates and sugars, free amino acids, protein, free lipids, moisture and ash contents. The maximum amount of reducing sugar and total carbohydrates was found to be 3.08% and 5.76% respectively in Vernonia cineria pollen grains. The crude protein and soluble protein i.e. 48.4% and 32.1% was found in pollen of Parthenium hysterophorus. Major free amino acids 3.09% and lipid 4.10% contents were encountered in Helianthus annuus pollen. The moisture and ash percentage was 12.83% and 7.05% in Tridax procumbens and Brassica campestris respectively. Some biochemicals are found to be responsible for the visits of bees in general and honey bees (A. dorsata) in particular. The data obtained through pollen biochemical analysis is being interpreted with pollen frequency class and the honey bee visits. Moringa oleifera, Helianthus annuus, Ricinus communis and Parthenium hysterophorus pollen types were dominantly represented in honey samples which have more amount of protein, carbohydrates and amino acids.