This study investigates the inorganic composition of 28 honey samples, mainly collected from various regions of North Macedonia, with additional samples from neighboring countries (Greece and Bulgaria) focusing on both nutritional value and contamination risks. Thirteen essential elements (Al, Ba, Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, Sr, Zn) were quantified by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES), and five potentially toxic elements (As, Cd, Co, Ni, Pb) were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Several samples exceeded the Codex Alimentarius reference value for lead (0.1 mg/kg), with contents ranging from 0.05 to 2.28 mg/kg, indicating elevated levels that may be associated with local environmental conditions. Nevertheless, honeys showed high levels of essential micronutrients—particularly Cu, Mn, and Zn—highlighting a modest nutritional contribution, particularly for Cr and Mn. This support honey’s role as a complementary component of the diet rather than a major source of micronutrients. Intake estimates based on a typical consumption of 20 g/day confirmed the nutritional relevance of these micronutrients, while also drawing attention to potential risks for vulnerable populations, especially children.
Andonovska et al. (Fri,) studied this question.