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Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and attenuated total reflection (ATR) sampling have been used to detect adulteration of honey samples. The sample set comprised 320 spectra of authentic (n = 99) and adulterated (n = 221) honeys. Adulterants used were solutions containing both d-fructose and d-glucose prepared in the following respective weight ratios: 0.7:1.0, 1.2:1.0 (typical of honey composition), and 2.3:1.0. Each adulterant solution was added to individual honeys at levels of 7, 14, and 21% w/w. Spectral data were compressed and analyzed using k-nearest neighbors (kNN) and partial least squares (PLS) regression techniques. A number of data pretreatments were explored. Best classification models were achieved with PLS regression on first derivative spectra giving an overall correct classification rate of 93%, with 99% of samples adulterated at levels of 14% w/w or greater correctly identified. This method shows promise as a rapid screening technique for detection of this type of honey adulteration.
Kelly et al. (Tue,) studied this question.