Palynological, physico-chemical and bioactivity parameters determination, of a less common Greek honeydew honey: dryomelo

A less common honeydew honey, dryomelo, from different regions in Greece was characterized based on palynological, physico-chemical and bioactivity parameter analyses. Results showed that dryomelo had diverse proportions (%) of Castanea saliva, Polygonum aviculare, Quercus ilex, minor pollen grains and few to medium honeydew elements. Analysis of variance showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in hydroxymethylfurfural, diastase, colour parameters, and % in vitro antioxidant activity values according to region. Application of factor analysis to predominant pollen and the significant parameters, in combination with the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin test, strengthened the effect of geographical origin and their potential use for quality control analysis of dryomelo.