CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004, India
1Dr. YSRHU, Horticulture Research Station, Ambajipeta-533 214, India
Present study signifies the benefits of scientific management practices which eventually will earn more returns to beekeepers in India. Colonies with initial 10 frames strength and two extractions in the seasons were observed to produce honey of good quality and most economical. In 5 frame colonies moisture remained well below (17.91%) the maximum standards (20%) set for “special” grade honey and was still lower (17.80%) in medium strength (10 frames) and the strongest (15 frames) colonies (17.43%). However, under regular honey extraction, the moisture content was maximum in colonies of lowest strength (20.02%) compared to in 10 and 15 frame colonies. Other quality parameters like F: G ratio, sucrose, hydroxy methyl furfural (HMF) was observed above standards in 10 frame and two extraction colonies. Total reducing sugars was highest (82.23 %) in 15 frame single extraction colonies and 80.24 % in 10 frame colonies with similar extraction frequencies. Present findings clearly support the role of extraction frequencies in improving honey quality as we decrease frequency quality improves remarkable even in low strength colony. Strength is also a very important factor in deciding honey quality.
Honey quality, Extraction, Quality Parameters, Moisture, Honey sugars
