ABSTRACT
This research work investigated the analyzing the antimicrobial properties of honey samples obtained from 6 retail outlets in Nigeria namely. The physio- chemical properties evaluated were colour, pH, moisture content, ash content, specific Gravity, electrical conductivity and total acidity. Coagulase test, starch hydrolysis, Indole production, voges- Proskaeu Test, Methyl Red Test, Urease Test, Gelatine Hydrolysis, Nitrate Reduction, Motility test and sugar fermentation were among the microbiological properties that were evaluated. Results showed a range of honey colors from light amber to dark amber. There was significant difference in the pH of the honey samples obtained from different areas of Ogun, Lagos and Taraba State. Maximum pH of 4.01 was observed from honey sample collected from Shaki and Taraba, while the highest pH value of 4.84 was from honey collected from Ifo market. Moisture content value obtained ranged from 14.6% - 21.30 while water activity was 0.41% - 0.56%, Ash content of 0.16g- 0.34g(100g-1) and the Electrical conductivity of 0.25- 0.42( Scm-1). Results of the microbiological characteristics showed that the microbial profile were very low for all the microorganisms studied. The SPC varied from 0- 100cfug-1, whereas the total coliform were not detected in any of the samples whereas fungi (yeast and moulds) were also present at low counts in all the honey samples. The physico-chemical and microbiological indices obtained in this study suggest that the honey sample that was obtained from various locations in Nigeria has high antimicrobial activity. However, microbial contamination during and or post processing rather than the indigenous micro flora of honey itself can also result in spoilage or persistence of some bacteria in honey.
CHAPTER ONE
1.0. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
Honey, a natural sweet substance produced by bees, has been extensively valued for its medicinal and nutritional benefits. As a natural product, it has been widely used in traditional medicine, not only for its nutritional content but also for its therapeutic potential, particularly in wound healing, skin care, and as an antimicrobial agent. Over the years, studies have documented the antimicrobial activity of honey, which is attributed to its unique physico-chemical properties such as high acidity, low water activity, and the presence of hydrogen peroxide and phytochemicals. In Nigeria, honey is a popular commodity, consumed both as a food and as a traditional remedy for various ailments. The diversity of floral sources and environmental conditions across the country influences the properties of honey produced in different regions.
Despite the growing demand for honey in Nigeria, the quality of honey sold in retail outlets remains a critical issue. Factors such as improper harvesting, poor processing, and inadequate storage conditions contribute to variations in honey’s physico-chemical and microbiological characteristics. These variations not only affect the quality and safety of honey but also its antimicrobial efficacy. Furthermore, microbial contamination during or after processing poses significant health risks to consumers, undermining the therapeutic reputation of honey. Given the importance of honey in nutrition and medicine, a detailed investigation into its quality and safety across retail outlets in Nigeria is necessary to ensure consumer protection and to enhance its marketability. This study focuses on evaluating the physico-chemical and microbiological properties of honey samples from different retail outlets in Ogun, Lagos, and Taraba States to ascertain their quality and antimicrobial potential.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Honey is widely recognized as a natural product with significant antimicrobial properties. However, its quality and safety can be compromised by several factors, including the region of production, processing methods, and storage conditions. In Nigeria, retail outlets serve as the primary distribution points for honey, yet there is limited systematic research on the quality of honey sold in these outlets. Variations in physico-chemical properties, such as pH, moisture content, and electrical conductivity, can significantly influence the antimicrobial activity of honey. Moreover, contamination during harvesting, processing, or storage can introduce harmful microorganisms, posing potential health risks to consumers.
The lack of standardized quality control measures in the honey supply chain exacerbates these issues. While studies have highlighted the antimicrobial properties of honey, the extent to which these properties are retained in retail honey remains unclear. Furthermore, there is a need to differentiate between contamination due to indigenous flora and that caused by poor handling practices. This research addresses these gaps by analyzing honey samples from retail outlets in Nigeria to determine their quality, safety, and antimicrobial potential. The findings will provide insights into the factors influencing honey quality and guide efforts to improve its production and distribution.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the quality and antimicrobial potential of honey samples obtained from retail outlets in Nigeria. The specific objectives include:
1. To evaluate the physico-chemical properties of honey samples, including color, pH, moisture content, ash content, specific gravity, electrical conductivity, and total acidity.
2. To assess the microbiological characteristics of the honey samples, including microbial load, presence of coliforms, and counts of yeast and molds.
3. To determine the antimicrobial potential of the honey samples based on their physico-chemical and microbiological profiles.
4. To identify potential sources of microbial contamination during or after the processing of honey samples.
5. To compare the quality of honey samples across different geographical locations in Nigeria, focusing on Ogun, Lagos, and Taraba States.
1.4 Significance of the Study
This study is significant for several reasons. First, it contributes to public health by providing critical information on the safety and quality of honey sold in Nigeria. Honey is a widely consumed product, and ensuring its safety is essential to protect consumers from potential health risks associated with microbial contamination. Second, the study has economic implications, as it highlights the antimicrobial properties of Nigerian honey, which can be leveraged to enhance its marketability both locally and internationally. Third, the research provides a scientific basis for understanding the relationship between the physico-chemical properties of honey and its antimicrobial activity, contributing to the global body of knowledge on honey.
Moreover, the findings will be useful for policymakers and regulatory agencies in developing standards for honey production, processing, and distribution. By identifying factors that influence honey quality, the study can guide interventions to improve handling and storage practices, ensuring that honey retains its beneficial properties. Lastly, the research benefits the Nigerian honey industry by promoting best practices and encouraging the production of high-quality honey that meets international standards.
1.5 Scope of the Study
The scope of this study is limited to honey samples obtained from retail outlets in Ogun, Lagos, and Taraba States, Nigeria. The research evaluates the physico-chemical properties of these samples, including pH, moisture content, ash content, and electrical conductivity, as well as their microbiological characteristics, such as microbial load and presence of specific microorganisms. The study focuses on determining the antimicrobial potential of the honey samples and identifying possible sources of contamination during or after processing.
This study does not include honey obtained directly from beekeepers or traditional sources that are not represented in retail outlets. Additionally, while the research emphasizes the relationship between physico-chemical properties and antimicrobial activity, it does not explore the impact of specific floral sources on honey quality. The geographical scope is restricted to selected locations in Ogun, Lagos, and Taraba States, and the findings may not be generalizable to honey produced in other parts of Nigeria.
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