NMR-profiling of honey samples

P2626-MRT is based on the NMR-profiling method by Bruker BioSpin GmbH for honey samples. However, the ring test is open to users of Bruker systems as well as for any other types of systems.The test covers the NMR-profiling of two different honeys regarding adulteration.

Two honey samples are provided for analysis:

• a blossom honey (country of origin and botanical variety will be announced), and
• a honeydew honey (country of origin and botanical variety will be announced).

The aim of the test is to identify whether or not the honeys are adulterated. An assessment of typical markers as well as of the type of honey, and the origin are asked for. 

The most relevant parameters like sugars, organic acids, amino acids, indicators for fermenting, processing and markers are covered by this test (see parameters below). The quantified concentration levels of the parameters are evaluated with respect to the comparability criterion (z-score).

The final report summarises

• the statistical evaluation,
• databases used incl. versions,
• relevant aspects of the sample preparation, and of the analysis, 
• the final assessment (adulteration yes/no)
• the evaluation with respect to the assessement of the type of honey and the origin of the honey.

Further information, which is relevant to the analytical staff only is summarised in an annex of the report, such as

• the individual Bruker reports of all participants (if used) in an anonymised way,
• the expert assessment of the participants (might be different from the final assessment above).

For reasons of fairness, only those participants, which provide details and assessments will receive the annex of the report. The data are considered as an exchange of knowledge between the participants and might help to identify shortcomings, built the basis for further discussion and thus help to enhance the quality of the applied method.

The license fee for the analysis of the samples of this proficiency test is kindly remitted by Bruker BioSpin GmbH.

Please feel free to have a look a the summary of the previous test P2528-MRT, which is available in the archive on the website.