Knowledge of Physicochemical Properties of Two Mexican Stingless Bee Honeys to Strengthen Their Biocultural Value for Indigenous Populations.

Abstract Honey production in Mexico is an ancient economic, social and biocultural activity for indigenous communities, Mayas and Totonacs, among others. Stingless bee honeys are used in traditional medicine to treat gastrointestinal, respiratory, dermatological and ophthalmic ailments as it contains compounds with antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal activities. Here we provide the first comprehensive physicochemical characterization of Mexican stingless bee honeys as a contribution to strengthening the practice of meliponiculture by indigenous Mayan and Totonac communities. By providing information on the main physicochemical parameters for the honeys of Melipona beecheii and Scaptotrigona mexicana, we intend to increase their commercial and biocultural value in different regions of Mexico, taking into consideration the different zootechnical management techniques used by these communities. A statistical analysis was performed to identify if there were significant differences in the physicochemical parameters evaluated. Significant differences were observed in moisture level, pH, sugar composition and HMF content; between at least two of the honeys analyzed. Furthermore, a principal component analysis confirmed these differences by showing a distinct profile for Scaptotrigona mexicana honey when compared to the honeys of two other species. Here we provide information that can be used by stingless beekeepers for the classification and characterization of the honeys they produce. This information will complement their indisputable efforts to conserve biological biodiversity, the defense of their territories, and the various ancestral practices they employ for the breeding, management, and reproduction of stingless bees. Furthermore, this information will help increase the economic sustainability of meliponiculture for these communities.