Floral origin markers for authenticating Lavandin honey (Lavandula angustifolia x latifolia). Discrimination from Lavender honey (Lavandula latifolia)

The aim of this study was to identify the botanical origin of Lavandin honey, a monofloral product of recent proliferation obtained from a hybrid of the species Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula Lavandin was authenticated here in chemical, palynological and sensory terms, and discriminated from the more common Lavender honey (L. latifolia). A total of 14 physico-chemical parameters, 26 pollen types, 13 sensory attributes and 80 volatile compounds were identified and/or quantified for this purpose. High concentrations of gamma-nonalactone, farnesol and acetovanillone, which were for the first time identified as components of honey aroma in this study, together with several lactones, dehydrovomifoliol, 4-methoxyacetophenone and decanal are proposed as chemical markers for authenticating Lavandin monofloral honey. In sensory terms, increased scores for caramel and peach compote sensations, together with an increased Rubus pollen content, provide additional useful information for the accurate authentication of Lavandin honey and its discrimination from Lavender honey (L. latifolia). Results showed enough floral markers to authenticate the botanical origin of Lavandin honey allowing its marketing as monofloral rather than generic honey. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.