Palynological, physico-chemical and organoleptic characteristics of carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) honey from Sicily

This study shows the results of melissopalynological and sensory evaluations on twenty-five carob tree honey samples coming from Sicily and declared unifloral by the local beekeepers. This specific carob tree honey production is erratic and limited because of its cold weather spreading, depending on seasonal trends that influence both the final amount and quality of honey itself. According to the melissopalynological results on samples, a minimum of 15% carob tree pollen was considered sufficient to typify these honeys as unifloral. The physico-chemical analysis was performed on the samples satisfying this percentage and determined the following parameters: moisture, pH, acidity, HMF, diastase activity, electrical conductivity, ash, sugar and colour. Physico-chemical analyses showed medium to high values for diastase activity, electrical conductivity, free acidity and moisture.