445 nm Laser-Induced Fluorescence Monitoring of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural in Honey

Authors: Andrew Atiogbe Huzortey, Benjamin Anderson, Jonathan Ntow, Samuel Sonko Sackey, Rofela Combey, Joseph Kwasi Adu, Charles Lloyd Yeboah Amuah, Peter Kofi Kwapong, Alfred Owusu

Abstract:

This study introduces a rapid and cost-effective method for monitoring honey quality by detecting 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), a key indicator of honey’s age, heat exposure, and adulteration. Using a 445 nm Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) technique, the research achieves accurate HMF detection up to 40 mg/kg, aligning with international honey quality standards. The method is safer, faster, and more affordable than traditional techniques such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). This breakthrough offers significant benefits for beekeepers, food safety regulators, retailers, and optical engineers involved in quality monitoring and device development.

Gap addressed:

Traditional honey testing methods are complex and expensive, making routine quality monitoring difficult. This study presents a faster and more accessible solution for ensuring honey authenticity and safety

Sector/Industry focus:

This research benefits stakeholders across multiple industries:
● Beekeepers and Honey Producers: Ensuring high-quality honey production.
● Food Safety Regulators: Ghana Food and Drugs Authority, Standards Authority, and international food agencies.
● Retailers and Exporters: Compliance with quality regulations for domestic and global markets.
● Optical Engineers and Device Manufacturers: Development of LIF-based honey quality monitoring equipment

Potential uptake or practical application:

Regulatory bodies can integrate LIF-based honey testing into national food safety programs.
● Manufacturers can produce affordable, handheld LIF devices for field and laboratory testing.
● Beekeepers and exporters can use LIF to verify honey authenticity and prevent adulteration.

Key recommendations:

Optical engineers should design affordable, easy-to-use LIF devices for honey quality monitoring.
2. Conduct training workshops on LIF Technology for beekeepers, food regulators, and honey retailers to ensure proper implementation.
3. Investigate the effectiveness of the 445 nm LIF method across different honey varieties and environmental conditions.
4. Governments and regulatory bodies should adopt LIF as a standard method for honey quality control.
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