4. Conclusion

Honeys are complex and diverse natural products. But whatever their origins, the presence of enzymes secreted by the bee's hypopharyngeal glands makes them fragile and causes them to evolve physico-chemically over time. Such variations have led many authors to describe honey as a "living product".

To be of the highest quality, honey must comply with EEC legislation and standards, be stored in a cool place at less than 20°C, and be consumed quickly, well before the use-by date indicated on the packaging. Its aromatic and gustatory qualities are at their best in the year following harvest.

Despite all the efforts made by beekeepers to produce quality honey, and by forensic scientists to protect consumers, there are still too many counterfeit products. This is why laboratories specializing in fraud detection must regularly develop new research...