Identifying Honey Species Composition and Verifying Label Accuracy Using Melissopalynological Analysis and DNA Metabarcoding
Saule Daugaliyeva, Аida Daugaliyeva, Katira Amirova, Akmeiir Yelubayeva, Nurlan Toktarov, Simone Peletto
Abstract
Honey consumption is increasing worldwide due to its natural qualities, but its safety and authenticity are not always assured. Honey adulteration through mislabeling and fraudulent production significantly damages consumer trust and poses health risks. This study aimed to identify the botanical makeup of Kazakh and imported Honey to assess whether it matches with the declared labeling using melissopalynological analysis and DNA metabarcoding. During our research, melissopalynological analysis showed that 64.7% of Kazakh Honey samples and 62.5% of imported Honey matched the declared labeling. In 6 samples of domestic Honey and 6 samples of imported honey, the plant source differed from what was indicated on the label. According to DNA metabarcoding data, the botanical origin of honey by the ITS2 marker was confirmed in 58.8% of Kazakh and 31.25% of imported honey samples. Using the rbcL marker, only 29.4% of domestic and 31.25% of imported honey samples matched the declared plant origin. Agreement between melissopalynology and ITS2 marker data was observed in 10 samples, and between melissopalynology and rbcL in 8 samples. Eight samples also matched the labeling based on both genetic markers. Thus, combining DNA metabarcoding with melissopalinological analysis enables a more accurate identification of the honey's botanical origin, thereby strengthening product authenticity control, helping to detect counterfeits, facilitating access to international markets, and increasing consumer confidence. Overall, the results highlight the importance of strict monitoring and verification methods to protect consumers and maintain market integrity.