A Review and Comparison of Methods for Measuring Sugars in Honey Samples

Belgheisi, Saba

doi:10.22034/asas.2026.587782.1112

A Review and Comparison of Methods for Measuring Sugars in Honey Samples

Document Type : Letter to Editor

Author

Saba Belgheisi

food science, food science and agriculture, standard research institute, Karaj, Iran

10.22034/asas.2026.587782.1112

Abstract

Accurate measurement of honey's sugar composition plays a key role in quality assessment and adulteration detection, particularly regarding the addition of inexpensive sugar syrups. This letter reviews common methods for honey sugar analysis, including classical titrimetric techniques (Lane-Eynon, Fehling's test) and DNS spectrophotometry, as well as advanced instrumental methods such as HPAEC-PAD, GC-MS, and HPLC-RID, alongside rapid, non-destructive technologies such as refractometry and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, comparing them in terms of accuracy, cost, analysis time, and application. The review suggests that a hybrid approach, combining a rapid method for initial screening with a precise instrumental method for confirming suspicious samples, may offer an economical and reliable strategy for honey quality-control laboratories. It is hoped that raising this topic will encourage further discussion and exchange of views among researchers and specialists in this field within the pages of this journal. It is also suggested that future issues include articles focused on the national standardization of honey sugar measurement methods, in order to improve consistency of results across different laboratories.

Keywords

honey

reducing sugars

honey adulteration

HPAEC-PAD

near-infrared spectroscopy

Subjects

Food Sciences

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