COMPARATIVE DIVERSIFICATION OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND MINERAL COMPOSITION IN BRANDED AND UNBRANDED HONEY SAMPLES IN DUTSE METROPOLIS, NIGERIA
Honey, produced by bees from plant nectar or honeydew, is valued for its medicinal properties, including antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. Its composition varies due to factors like geographical location, environmental conditions, and processing methods. This study compared the physicochemical and mineral compositions of branded and unbranded honey samples from Dutse Metropolis. We evaluated moisture content, pH, acidity, ash content, protein, fat, carbohydrate, density, and essential minerals (calcium, potassium, sodium) using standardized laboratory techniques. Results showed that unbranded honey had higher moisture content (17.15%–20.28%) than branded honey (13.72%–15.91%). It also had greater ash content (0.32%–0.61%) and protein levels (5.32%–5.63%) compared to branded honey (0.19%–0.22% and 3.75%–4.07%, respectively). Branded honey had higher carbohydrate content (79.30%–81.74%) and density (1.45–1.53 g/cm³) compared to unbranded honey (73.52%–76.31% and 1.16–1.17 g/cm³, respectively). Unbranded honey contained more calcium (23.05–31.66 mg/L) than branded honey (2.05 mg/L). Potassium levels ranged from 118.95 mg/kg in branded honey to 142.90 mg/kg in unbranded honey, while sodium content varied from 104.63 mg/kg in unbranded honey to 110.90 mg/kg in branded honey. The study concludes that unbranded honey generally retains more natural properties and higher mineral concentrations, while branded honey offers better consistency and lower moisture content. Consumers and producers should consider both natural composition benefits and quality control measures.
KEYWORDS: Diversification, Physicochemical, Mineral Composition, Branded, Unbranded, Honey Samples, Dutse Metropolis.
