Chemical composition of volatile components in the honey of some species of stingless bees

Using the technique of headspace solid-phase microextraction in combination with gas chromatography and mass spectrometric detection (HS-SPME/GC-MS), the composition of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of the honey of four species of stingless bees was studied in comparison with the honey of Apis mellifera bees. Peaks for 284 volatile components were registered on the chromatograms. Only eight components were present in all six studied samples. A high level of specificity in the composition of VOCs is a prerequisite for differentiating honey produced by different types of stingless bees and honey bees. Several specific features have been identified that are characteristic of the composition of VOCs in the honey of each species of stingless bees. These characteristics can be used to distinguish it from the honey of A. mellifera. The data obtained indicate the applicability of the HS-SPME/GC-MS technique for establishing the origin and for quality control of stingless bee honey.