Investigation of Different Botanical Origin of Honey Types with Respect to Food Safety

Abstract

Abstract:In this research, antibiotic (sulfamethazine, tetracycline, streptomycin), pesticides (amitraz, coumaphos, fluvalinate) and naphthalene and phosphine residues in 210 honey samples collected from 7 different geographic regions of Turkey were investigated. Accordingly, in the investigations conducted during 2007, out of 210 analyzed honey samples, 92 samples tested positive for antibiotic, 19 samples tested positive for pesticides, 7 samples tested positive for naphthalene and 11 samples tested positive for phosphine residue. Also, antibiotic, pesticides and naphthalene residues were not found in 92 samples out of 210. The obtained results from the study confirmed the routine use of antibiotics and pesticides by beekeepers for the control of certain honey bee diseases and parasites. The results show that some beekeepers in Turkey used antibiotics and pesticides whereas some beekeepers did not use these veterinary drugs. Generally, the risk of residue remaining in the honey in not high and could be reduced with the use of licensed for honey bee veterinary drugs, the correct use of these veterinary drugs and correct application of these prescribed treatment against honey bee disease.