Comparison of Total Soluble Protein Content and SDS-PAGE Pattern Between Four Different Types of Honey

Abstract

Generally, there are two types of beekeeping: the Apini tribe and the Meliponini tribe. Both tribes produce honey and have a good demand due to their health benefit properties. Considering the influence of diverse factors on honey composition and the lack of studies, establishing quality standards for stingless bee honey (Meliponini tribe) is still challenging and need to do to protect the consumer. In this sense, this study aimed to determine the total soluble protein content and compare the SDS-PAGE profile between two species of Apini tribe and two species of Meliponini tribe. Protein concentrations in honey samples were varied and resulted in a micro component in honey. SDS-PAGE profile for Meliponini tribe showed more number of protein bands compared to protein from Apini tribe. The unique protein bands that appeared in the Meliponini tribe may have potential as a biomarker to justify the authenticity and quality of that honey, which is known as Unique Kelulut Factor (UKF).