Bioactive Properties of Algerian Bee Pollen: Influence of Botanical Origin on Polyphenol Content and Antioxidant Capacity

TL;DR

This study examines how the plant source of Algerian bee pollen affects its antioxidant and nutritional properties, finding that certain types have higher beneficial compounds.

Contribution

The study provides a detailed characterization of Algerian bee pollen's botanical origin and its impact on bioactive properties, which is under-researched in the region.

Findings

Bee pollen from Brassica napus, Acacia, Myrtus communis, and Sinapis alba showed higher phenolic content and antioxidant activity.

Hedysarum and Daucus carota pollen had the lowest levels of phenols and flavonoids.

The mineral content of the pollen samples was analyzed, revealing a profile of essential elements like K, Ca, Mg, and Fe.

Abstract

The composition and biological activity of bee pollen are strongly influenced by its botanical origin, which is determined by the regional flora and environmental conditions. In Algeria, despite the growing consumption and traditional use of bee products, especially in the Mediterranean region known for its rich floral biodiversity, scientific studies on bee pollen remain scarce. This study aims to characterize bee pollen from the Mediterranean region of Algeria by identifying its botanical origin and evaluating its total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, antioxidant activity, and minerals. A total of 27 bee pollen samples were collected and subjected to palynological analysis to determine their floral sources. Total phenolic content and total flavonoid content were determined by standard colorimetric assays, and antioxidant activity was assessed using RSA with a DPPH assay, ABTS+•, and FRAP methods. The results revealed significant variability in the phenolic composition and antioxidant capacity of the samples, depending on their botanical origin. Pollen types such as Brassica napus type, Acacia, Myrtus communis, and Sinapis alba showed notably higher phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity, whereas Hedysarum and Daucus carota pollen exhibited the lowest values. The mineral profile, including macro- and microelements (such as K, Ca, Mg, P, Fe, Cu, Mn, and Na), was determined to explore the nutritional value and potential correlations with biochemical parameters. These findings highlight the influence of floral biodiversity on the bioactive potential of bee pollen and underscore the value of Algerian bee pollen as a promising source of natural antioxidants.

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